ST. JOHNS COUNTY, FL – A three-day multi-agency operation targeting prostitution and related criminal activities in St. Johns County has resulted in 33 arrests and sparked several human trafficking investigations. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office (SJSO) led the effort, with significant support from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) and Nassau County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO).
The operation focused on disrupting criminal networks involved in serious offenses, including human trafficking and child exploitation. Charges from the arrests include prostitution, trafficking in narcotics, illegal gun possession, and violations that have initiated human trafficking investigations.
Authorities uncovered “alarming trends,” including juveniles soliciting sex, juveniles being forced into sex trafficking, and individuals knowingly engaging in sexual behavior with persons carrying sexually transmitted diseases.
“Prostitution and associated crimes have far-reaching consequences, often involving coercion, trafficking, and other illegal activities,” said Sheriff Robert Hardwick. “This operation demonstrates our commitment to protecting our communities and holding offenders accountable. I am proud of our staff who were involved in this operation, and we are grateful for the partnership with JSO and NCSO.”
The collaborative effort utilized intelligence-driven strategies, undercover work, and inter-agency coordination to identify and apprehend suspects. Beyond the arrests, the operation has spurred separate investigations into human trafficking and child exploitation by the Northeast Florida Inter-agency Child Exploitation and Persons Task Force (INTERCEPT).
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to combating human trafficking, narcotics trafficking, and illegal activities that threaten public safety. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to SJSO or their local law enforcement agency.
To report suspicious activity, contact:
- crimetips@sjso.org
- First Coast Crime Stoppers: (866) 845-TIPS (8477) or online at fccrimestoppers.com
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tip line: (800) 843-5678 or online at report.cybertip.org
- SJSO non-emergency: 904-824-8304
- For emergencies, call 911
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