Constable Ryan Gable’s Criminal Investigations Division, along with their law enforcement partners, discussed on Friday morning the recent regional task force operations that led to numerous arrests related to crimes investigated by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) and Human Trafficking task force. Over a recent three-day period, Operation Safe Haven was a multi-agency effort that made 14 arrests with charges that include prostitution, promotion of prostitution, compelling prostitution under 18 years of age, online solicitation of a minor, capture of a sex offender, trafficking of a child, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
In addition, six women were rescued when they notified investigators claiming they were being trafficked, one of whom was under the age of 18. All six women were provided resources to escape a life of human trafficking.
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Constable Ryan Gable emphasized the hard work of his team and partners to bring those who exploit, harm, and abuse citizens—especially children—to justice. Gable stated, “Each charge, arrest, and life affected serves as a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite to safeguard the most vulnerable members of our society.” The team, along with the task force, provided insight into the focus of the operation, explaining how the partners assisted in making these efforts a success.
Gable also noted, “The internet has evolved into a significant platform for offenders who exploit children and traffic victims for sexual purposes. By integrating human trafficking in ICAC investigations we utilize digital forensics and online tracking to undercover trafficking networks while insights from trafficking cases improve ICAC’s ability to identify victims.”
Investigators used various creative techniques, including undercover officers meeting victims and traffickers online through social media or various websites where a sex date is arranged. Investigators noted that the trafficker would accompany the victim to the meeting site, at which point police would move in and make arrests.
According to investigators, online exploitation has increased over 500% in the last decade. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 3,000 cases had been reported annually; that number is now 20,000 in the past two years. The goal is to scrub the internet and rescue children. It’s an ongoing battle, but these collaborative efforts in law enforcement prove that the law is ready to go the distance against those who prey on children.
Montgomery County Precinct 3 Captain Adam Acosta added, “Child exploitation doesn’t have any demographics. It doesn’t care about demographics. If a child has access to the internet, they have a smartphone, they’re on it, they’re unsupervised with it, they’re exposed to it.”
Commander Salaam Zia of the Houston Police Department’s Vice Division expressed the importance of the collaborative effort in sending a message to trafficking networks: “These partnerships demonstrate the power to dismantle trafficking networks and protect victims. When we join forces, we not only strengthen our ability to uphold justice and ensure public safety, but we send a loud and clear message to both survivors and traffickers. To the survivors, our collaboration says you are not alone. We see you and we are working tirelessly to protect you and hold those that have harmed you accountable. And to the traffickers, we make it clear. There will be no safe haven for you. The relentless efforts of our team will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice. We will hold you accountable for the harm you have caused.”
HPD Lieutenant Freddy Croft, Commander of the Houston-Metro ICAC Task Force, emphasized the importance of educating children about the dangers of exploitation at home: “I do always want to give a call out to parents and members of the community to really talk to your children. That’s the only way we’re going to be able to really combat these crimes is getting with the children, talk to them about what they’re doing, what their habits are online, and better ways to be safe,” Croft stated.
These collaborative efforts in law enforcement showcase a commitment to protecting children from exploitation and trafficking, demonstrating that the law is prepared to combat these crimes effectively.
