LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department shared the results of a recent sex trafficking operation that was conducted during F1 weekend on Tuesday morning.
According to Deputy Chief Nicholas Farese, Sheriff Kevin McMahill has made combating sex and human trafficking a priority for LVMPD.
"The reality is that sex trafficking happens in our city every day, and big events bring more people to our city — as well as more awareness," Farese said.
In order to combat the potential rise in crime, LVMPD worked to educate over 100 casino workers on how to spot potential victims of trafficking. Additionally, in collaboration with the R.I.S.E., a 24-hour resource center was set up on the Strip to provide resources for victims.
During the course of the operation, Farese also said that five juveniles were recovered and identified as potential victims, and resources were provided to more than 20 potential victims. LVMPD Officer Hector Cintron, Captain of the Gang, Vice, and Special Investigations Bureau, revealed that 36 individuals were arrested for pandering (or trafficking), 31 were arrested for soliciting services, and 7 were arrested for luring a child.
Capt. Cintran said that all the suspects taken into custody believed they were "meeting a child for sex."
"Though my bureau is relentless in pursuing predators... we cannot do this alone," Capt. Cintran said.
Cintran also highlighted his team's "victim-centered approach" to this operation, which required that a victim advocate respond to the scene alongside officers to provide the victim with immediate resources. These resources included anything from financial assistance to emergency housing for those seeking immediate protection from their traffickers.
"Most victims do not see themselves as victims, and it's important to address the psychological component of this crime, whether it's sexual abuse at a young age or a predator targeting an emotionally vulnerable person," Capt. Cintran said.
Deputy Chief Farese also added that only 21 — or 10% — of victims contacted by officers accepted services, though he says it's "not uncommon."
"It often takes multiple contacts with these victims before they decide they are ready for help," he said.
Deputy Chief Farese also highlighted the importance of educating the community about how to spot potential human trafficking victims, further emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts across the Las Vegas valley.
Some of the tips he provided included asking oneself the following questions when confronted with a potential victim:
- Does the person appear disconnected from family or friends?
- Does the person appear fearful or controlled?
- Is the person missing school (if they're a juvenile)?
- Does the person appear dressed to look older or disguise their age?
- Is the person going out in public late at night?
Deputy Chief Farese encouraged parents to have conversations about relationships with their children, and highlight what red flags may look like. He also noted the importance of checking children's phones often to see who they may be texting or messaging on social media.
Farese also mentioned an upcoming campaign with the NFL to combat potential trafficking during the Super Bowl. However, he said more information would come out at a later date.
