6 victims rescued, 5 suspects arrested during human trafficking sting in Abilene

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Six victims were rescued and five suspects were arrested during a human trafficking sting operation in Abilene.

The Texas Department of Public Safety led the operation, which took place February 12 and 13, with assistance from the Abilene Police Department, the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security.

Child exploitation and human trafficking were the focus of the operation, and DPS officials say, “the goal of this operation was to apprehend human traffickers and individuals soliciting minor prostitution, as well as to provide services to identified victims of human trafficking.”

In total, six victims were rescued and received help from the State.

Five suspects were also arrested, with charges ranging from Online Solicitation of Prostitution Under 18 years Old and Compelling Prostitution.

DPS did not provide a list of suspects, however, the following individuals were booked into the Taylor County Jail on prostitution-related charges while the sting operation was taking place:

• Zaedrian Kiser – Solicitation Prostitution/Payor Under 18
• Epambela Epambela – Prostitution-Minor, Immigration
• Jerry Carson – Solicit Prostitution Under 18
• Justin Williams – Compelling Prostitution

It’s currently unknown if additional arrests will result from this investigation.

Stick with BigCountryHomepage.com for more information on the sting operation.