Operation Cross Country XIII, a nationwide enforcement campaign led by the FBI in collaboration with state and local partners, has resulted in the identification and location of 200 victims of sex trafficking.
Through strategic and coordinated efforts, Operation Cross Country XIII achieved significant milestones in rescuing victims, arresting offenders, and raising public awareness about the gravity of these awful crimes. (Photo: KIRO TV)
FBI’s Operation Cross Country XIII Rescues Child Victims
According to a published article, Operation Cross Country XIII also led to the identification and arrest of 126 suspects involved in human trafficking and child sexual exploitation offenses, with an additional 68 suspects of trafficking being arrested or identified.
Through strategic and coordinated efforts, Operation Cross Country XIII achieved significant milestones in rescuing victims, arresting offenders, and raising public awareness about the gravity of these awful crimes.
During a two-week operation in July, the FBI and its partners located 59 minor victims of child sex trafficking and child sexual exploitation offenses. Additionally, they located 59 actively missing children, bringing hope and relief to their families.
Operation Cross Country XIII is a collaboration between the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), with a primary focus on identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking. It also focused on investigating and arresting individuals and criminal enterprises involved in both child sex and human trafficking.
The enforcement campaign involved targeted operations conducted by law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend offenders, dismantle criminal networks, and prevent further harm to victims.
Suspects identified during the operation will undergo additional investigation for potential charges.
FBI’s Commitment Through Operation Cross Country XIII
FBI Director Christopher Wray stressed the Bureau’s commitment to combating human trafficking.
According to the FBI, to ensure a victim-centered and trauma-informed investigative response, a multidisciplinary team (MDT) was employed, comprising victim specialists, child/adolescent forensic interviewers, and other victim service personnel, along with special agents.
This team worked in collaboration with state and local partners to provide resources and support tailored to the unique needs of trafficking victims.
Victim specialists played a crucial role in providing services based on individual needs, including crisis intervention, emergency food and clothing, transportation for emergency services, and locating shelter or housing.
They also served as conduits between the victims and the investigative team, ensuring timely updates and communication.
Michelle DeLaune, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, highlighted the significance of Operation Cross Country XIII, stating that as a society everyone must work together to ensure the empowerment, protection, and support of those affected by human trafficking and child sex trafficking.
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