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8h ago

Polk County Sting Nets 246 Arrests in Weeklong 'Fool Around and Find Out Again' Operation

Officials highlighted a multi-agency online sting that combined arrests with victim outreach.

{p}In a sweeping seven-day undercover operation dubbed "Fool Around and Find Out – Again," the Polk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) arrested 246 suspects involved in human trafficking, prostitution, and child sexual exploitation. (Polk County Sheriff's Office){ }{/p}
"Prostitution is not a victimless crime – it results in human exploitation, misery, disease, dysfunction, drug and alcohol addiction, violence, and broken families," Sheriff Judd said. (Polk County Sheriff's Office)
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Attorney General James Uthmeier was also present at the news conference and said, "Human traffickers are vile predators who exploit the vulnerable…In Florida, we will not give these traffickers the opportunity to destroy more lives." (Polk County Sheriff's Office)

Overview

  • Authorities reported 230 prostitution-related arrests and 16 for attempted child sexual exploitation during the Sept. 8–14 operation.
  • Investigators detailed charges including 111 felony counts for traveling to commit prostitution, 20 felony facilitation counts, and 99 misdemeanor solicitations.
  • Officials said approximately 10–12 potential trafficking survivors were identified and offered services through One More Child, My Name My Voice, and Heartland for Children.
  • Forty-six suspects now face ICE holds, with deputies also recovering 15 firearms and filing 32 narcotics possession counts.
  • The seven-day operation used social media and escort platforms and brought in federal, state, and local partners including DHS, ICE, U.S. Army CID, and the Florida Attorney General’s Office.