JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. — Twenty-five people were arrested during a three-day prostitution enforcement operation conducted by the Jacksonville Beach Police Department and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Sand Trap,” targeted individuals using online platforms to solicit or purchase sex.
According to the Jacksonville Beach Police Department, Special Investigation Unit detectives posed as individuals offering sexual services while operating from beach-area hotels. Investigators communicated online with people seeking to pay for sexual acts, leading to 25 arrests over the course of the operation.
Police said reducing the demand for commercial sex is a key strategy in combating human trafficking.
During the investigation, detectives identified two survivors of human trafficking and connected them with services and resources for assistance.
The Jacksonville Beach Police Department said it will continue partnering with law enforcement agencies across Florida to conduct similar operations aimed at disrupting human trafficking networks and reducing exploitation.
Anyone in immediate danger should call 911. Suspicious activity related to human trafficking can also be reported to the Jacksonville Beach Police Department at (904) 270-1661 or to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.