During the month of January 2024, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) conducted several operations in the West Texas Region to combat human trafficking. The operations aimed to target individuals involved in exploiting and victimizing trafficking victims and apprehend those suspected of being involved in human trafficking through solicitation on various websites.
The success of these operations was greatly attributed to the collaboration of multiple agencies. DPS West Texas Regional Director Jose Sanchez expressed his appreciation for the teamwork, stating, "This was a very successful operation due to the outstanding collaboration of multiple agencies working towards combating human trafficking."
As a result of these operations, over 50 individuals were arrested for solicitation of prostitution, a state jail felony. Among those arrested were Sylvester Cherry from San Angelo, Hashiem Phillips from Midland, and Gilberto Hernandez, also from Midland. The DPS has also released the full list of individuals arrested, including their names and locations.
In addition to targeting individuals seeking sexual acts, DPS Special Agents worked alongside Homeland Security Investigations, the Odessa Police Department, and the Midland Police Department to conduct a Human Trafficking Operation targeting massage parlors in Midland County. The goal of this operation was to locate and assist human trafficking victims and apprehend suspects involved in prostitution. This operation led to the arrest of four suspects for prostitution, as well as the arrest of one individual for operating without a massage license.
These operations highlight the dedication and partnership between federal, local, and state law enforcement agencies in combating human trafficking. The DPS urges anyone who is a victim of human trafficking or has information about this criminal activity to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888. Additionally, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious behavior through the iWatch Texas program, which can be accessed via the mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org, or by calling 1-844-643-2251. All reports are confidential.
Human trafficking is a growing issue, and the DPS emphasizes the importance of community involvement in reporting any signs or suspicions of human trafficking. Director Jose Sanchez urges the community, saying, "Human trafficking is on the rise, and we need the community's assistance in reporting human trafficking; if you see something, please say something."
By working together and staying vigilant, law enforcement agencies and the community can continue to combat human trafficking and protect the vulnerable.
