St. Paul sex solicitation sting leads to 10 arrests, 3 victims saved from potential trafficking

A two-day undercover operation in St. Paul last week led to the arrest of 10 people on suspicion of soliciting minors for sex.

The operation took place on July 30 and 31. The suspects were talking via text and phone with undercover agents and investigators posing as minors, according to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA).

The suspects were then arrested as they arrived at a prearranged meeting place for an encounter, the BCA added.

In addition to the arrests, three victims were rescued from a potential sex trafficking situation. No further details were immediately available.

“Helping three people exit the throes of a potential sex trafficking situation to begin the healing process and regain control of their lives is why we are passionate and committed to this work,” BCA Superintendent Drew Evans said. “We will remain in lockstep with our law enforcement partners to rid our state of this reprehensible sex crime and support victim/survivors.”

RELATED: Edina police: 7 men arrested in underage human trafficking sting

“These 10 arrests are a true testament to the hard work of St. Paul police investigators, the Ramsey County Violent Crime Task Force and the BCA Human Trafficking Task Force,” said St. Paul Police Major Crimes Deputy Chief Jeff Stiff. “Let it be a message that we will hold you accountable for the crimes you commit in St. Paul.”

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of being trafficked, call 911. To report a suspected trafficking situation, call the BCA at 877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us. Minnesota youth who are trafficked or engage in prostitution are viewed as victims and survivors, not criminals under the Safe Harbor Act. If you or someone you know is being trafficked, you may be eligible for supportive services, safe housing and more. Call the Day One Hotline at 866-223-1111 or visit dayoneservices.org for more information.

The Minnesota Human Trafficking Investigators Task Force (MNHITF) provides statewide law enforcement response for the Human Trafficking National Hotline. Victims/survivors can get help by calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733. 

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