More Than 100 Arrested in Ohio Human Trafficking Sting
Ohio’s attorney general says more than 100 people were taken into custody statewide during a weeklong human trafficking crackdown.
Attorney General Dave Yost revealed details of Operation Next Door, which involved over 100 law enforcement agencies and led to 135 arrests. Of those, 103 were people accused of prostitution or solicitation. Authorities also made 32 felony arrests and carried out nine search warrants connected to trafficking.
MORE: Here’s What Changes for Ohioans as New Laws Take Effect Tuesday
“There need to be consequences,” Yost said. “Human trafficking is among the most serious crimes in our society. It’s not just a violation of the body; it’s a violation of personhood.”
Yost said the operation’s name reflects how trafficking often goes unnoticed in everyday places.
“It’s not just a big city or small town issue. It’s everywhere—neighbors, coworkers, hotels. It’s not okay.”
Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin said his office’s Internet Crimes Against Children task force was especially busy. Deputies arrested a 77-year-old man who claimed to be a federal defense attorney on charges related to child pornography, and four Columbus residents accused of attempting to meet minors for sex.
Police in Hilliard, Dublin, and Grove City also took part. Hilliard Police Chief Mike Woods noted that cases like these show trafficking doesn’t stop at city limits.
Yost added that law enforcement is offering services to survivors identified during the operation, and urged the public to report anything that seems suspicious.
- Morning Rituals That Make Your Whole Day Feel Better
- Pastor Keri Fraser Shares Message of Faith & Hope With New Single “Same God”
- Get Up! Mornings Trending Topics of The Day: March 13th
- Sybil Wilkes Breaks Down What We Need to Know: March 13, 2026
- Democratic Rep. James Clyburn To Seek 18th Term In House
- Who Will Replace Marjorie Taylor Greene? These Are The Contenders
- Wunmi Mosaku Captivates On The Cover Of 'Glamour UK' Amid Oscar Buzz
- Cleveland Food Tournament! Vote For Your Favorite Spots Today!
- From Groceries To Cyberattacks: How The Iran War Is Affecting The US
- Global Entry Program Restored As TSA Faces DHS Shutdown Staff Shortages
More Than 100 Arrested in Ohio Human Trafficking Sting was originally published on mycolumbusmagic.com
