A human trafficking investigation led to the arrest of 15 people on Wednesday, according to the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office.
The Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, Michigan City Police Department, and Michigan State Police Southwest Enforcement Team (SWET-West) formed a relationship to uncover traffickers and assist survivors.
Deputies report that they have arrested 15 individuals for charges related to sex exploitation. One person was also arrested on an outstanding warrant.
According to the sheriff’s office, the goal of these operations is not just to identify and arrest traffickers but also to assist survivors in accessing assistance options.
“Human trafficking happens in every community — including our own. These operations are as much about saving lives as they are about enforcing the law. Every person we reach represents an opportunity to intervene, support, and protect,” the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office said in a release.
Survivors of sex and human trafficking are encouraged to seek assistance and support. All reports remain confidential, and services are accessible around the clock.
The National Human Trafficking Hotline can be reached by calling 1-888-373-7888 or texting “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733.
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