San Diego County, located near the southern US border, has unfortunately emerged as one of the major hotspots for human trafficking in the country. With more than 8,000 people being trafficked annually, this tragic situation demands attention and action. Recent efforts by law enforcement agencies have shed light on the alarming scale of this crisis.
In a joint operation in a known high prostitution area, law enforcement agencies, including the San Diego Police, successfully rescued eight teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 from the clutches of sex trafficking. The authorities have revealed that while a majority of the victims are from the local area, around 20% of them are brought across the southern border, highlighting the role of cartels and street gangs in perpetuating this heinous crime.
Investigations have revealed that street gangs affiliated with cartels have a significant influence on the sex trafficking operations. These gangs often work in collaboration with or under the control of the cartels, exacerbating the extent of the problem. Survivors of these brutal experiences, like Keelan Washington, who was kidnapped at the age of 14 and subjected to unimaginable horrors, are now using their voices to raise awareness about the prevalence of sex trafficking in the region.
According to Keelan, her trafficker subjected her to repeated rape and physical abuse. She endured unimaginable suffering, including being forced to sit in ice baths for extended periods, carrying heavy objects, and receiving brutal punishments for any attempts to escape. Her chilling account serves as a chilling reminder of the inhuman treatment suffered by countless victims of sex trafficking.
Just last month, an extensive statewide operation to combat human trafficking resulted in a total of 539 arrests across California. This week-long operation spearheaded by law enforcement agencies demonstrated a firm commitment to combating this vile trade in human lives.
The efforts to combat human trafficking in San Diego County and beyond are ongoing. Law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to dismantle trafficking networks and ensure the safety of victims. Collaborative initiatives with non-profit organizations and survivor-led groups have also been crucial in raising awareness, providing support, and aiding in the process of recovery for survivors.
The alarming prevalence of human trafficking in San Diego County serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address this crisis. It is essential for community members, law enforcement, and policymakers to work hand in hand to eliminate the factors that contribute to this illicit trade and provide the necessary resources to support survivors on their path to healing and rebuilding their lives.
