PRESCOTT, AZ — In a powerful effort to combat human trafficking, Riverside County law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with advocacy groups like Destiny House Restoration Center, participated in a statewide operation called Operation Reclaim & Rebuild. This week-long sting, conducted from January 26 through Saturday, resulted in 112 arrests and the rescue of 13 victims in Riverside County alone, contributing to a statewide total of 547 arrests and 177 victims rescued, including 11 children.
The operation, spanning from Murrieta to Palm Desert, targeted individuals involved in human trafficking, sexual slavery, and related crimes. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, those arrested face charges including soliciting prostitution, pimping, pandering, possession of narcotics, and other trafficking-related offenses. The initiative underscores the commitment to disrupting the illicit underground economy fueled by human trafficking, where victims are often coerced into sexual acts against their will.
“Human trafficking is modern-day slavery,” said Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman during a recent news conference. “Traffickers prey on vulnerable individuals, and we are dedicated to finding, arresting, and prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law.”
Supporting Victims and Raising Awareness
During the operation, 13 potential victims in Riverside County received critical services and resources, with advocacy groups like Destiny House Restoration Center playing a vital role in providing support. Statewide, 11 minors were rescued and placed in protective custody under the care of the Department of Children and Family Services. These efforts align with National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, emphasizing the need for ongoing awareness and action.
At Destiny House Restoration Center, we believe that “prostitution is not a victimless crime.” Many victims of commercial sexual exploitation have endured prolonged emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Our mission is to provide a safe haven, counseling, and resources to help survivors rebuild their lives. Learn more about our work at Destiny House Restoration Center.
Operation Details and Ongoing Efforts
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has released the identities of 107 individuals arrested during the sting, withholding the remaining names to protect victims and ongoing investigations. For more details on the operation, read the full report on Patch.com.
Destiny House remains committed to partnering with law enforcement and community organizations to combat human trafficking and support survivors. If you or someone you know needs help, contact our team or explore resources available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline.
Resources
- Destiny House Restoration Center – Support and resources for human trafficking survivors.
- Riverside County Sheriff’s Department – Official updates on law enforcement efforts.
- National Human Trafficking Hotline – 24/7 support for victims and reporting (1-888-373-7888).
- Department of Children and Family Services – Protective services for minors.
- com Article – Full details on Operation Reclaim & Rebuild.
