In a recent statewide crackdown on human trafficking in Ohio, Operation Buyer's Remorse resulted in the arrest of 160 individuals, including an elementary school teacher, a college professor, and two U.S. Air Force members. The operation, which spanned across every corner of Ohio, targeted patrons of sex workers and successfully apprehended individuals ranging from a 17-year-old to an 84-year-old.

AG Yost today announced the success of a weeklong statewide human trafficking crackdown, ‘Operation Buyer’s Remorse,’ which sought to arrest those trying to buy sex and to identify survivors of human trafficking. pic.twitter.com/yH4zkFGcmH

— Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost (@OhioAG) October 2, 2023

The operation, led by Ohio's attorney general, aimed to combat the demand for human trafficking by targeting those seeking to buy sex. Out of the 149 arrests directly related to solicitation, the remaining 11 individuals faced charges for promoting prostitution, a practice that perpetuates the demand for human trafficking. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of human trafficking and reducing the demand for illicit sexual services. One of the significant achievements of Operation Buyer's Remorse was the identification and support provided to over 100 human trafficking survivors.

These individuals were offered services from healthcare and social service organizations, highlighting the operation's commitment to helping the most vulnerable victims of human trafficking. Furthermore, the operation extended its reach to Toledo, where the U.S. Border Patrol, along with other law enforcement agencies, executed searches of illicit massage parlors. The arrest of six individuals suspected of compelling prostitution at these locations demonstrated the operation's dedication to dismantling illicit networks contributing to human trafficking.

While none of the suspects arrested were explicitly accused of human trafficking, the operation shed light on the issue and raised awareness of the complex nature of human trafficking, which is often intertwined with the sex trade. Ohio's police chief in Willoughby, James Schultz, emphasized the importance of recognizing many individuals involved in sex work as victims who are coerced or forced into their circumstances. The success of Operation Buyer's Remorse can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of eight task forces deployed across the state. These task forces conducted undercover stings, drawing suspected offenders into fake encounters with sex workers.

The operation's dedication to identifying and contacting potential victims resulted in over 100 survivors of human trafficking being offered information about available social services. It is worth noting that some organizations representing sex workers and civil liberties, as well as academics, have consistently opposed the criminalization of sex work. These groups argue that criminalization does not deter individuals from engaging in sex work and can have negative consequences such as increased risks for sex workers and reduced access to safety measures and health services.

However, none of these organizations have provided immediate comment as of yet regarding Operation Buyer's Remorse in Ohio. Overall, Operation Buyer's Remorse stands as a significant victory in Ohio's ongoing battle against human trafficking. By targeting those seeking to buy sex, the operation aims to undermine the demand for human trafficking and provide support for survivors. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies across the state have proven instrumental in identifying potential victims and apprehending those involved in promoting prostitution.