TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) Task Force released the results of Operation Breaking Chains, a strategic initiative in 16 Florida counties that focused on reducing human trafficking throughout the state and prosecuting those responsible for trafficking individuals. During this month-long operation, 29 victims were recovered, 31 traffickers were identified, and a total of 363 arrests took place during the Task Force Operation Breaking Chains.
“Amplifying the safety on our roads and waterways is crucial for all Floridians, including our children, and those who visit the Sunshine State,” said FSA President and Gilchrist County Sheriff Bobby Schultz. “The dedicated enforcement of state laws that deal with businesses suspected of human trafficking and online operations will help to keep us all safe.”
The following are the statewide totals:
· 16 total Sheriff’s Offices participated in the month-long operation.
· 29 victims recovered
· 31 traffickers identified
· 4 traffickers arrested
· 324 interdiction stops made both highway and waterway
· 4 victims rescued for interdiction stops
· Over 1,000 hours doing knock and talks at multiple business locations
· 363 total arrests
· 7,591 social media and sign messages distributed
· 33 non-government community-based organizations assisted during the operation
"Human trafficking is an ever-present issue, especially in the state of Florida. While this operation did not uncover any local traffickers, it is great to see that 31 were identified statewide, and 29 victims were recovered. We cannot pretend that our area is immune to human trafficking, despite this operation not revealing any here, and we will continue our efforts to find these people and keep it out of our community," Sheriff Bill Prummell of Charlotte County said.
