The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says nearly 20 people have been arrested as part of a multi-agency operation targeting sex offenders and “sex buyers” wanting illegal activity with children.
The operation took place in Geary and Riley counties, but the investigation involved law enforcement from the eastern half of the state including the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office. It also involved the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the US Army Criminal Investigation Division.
The KBI says people from Abilene, Fort Riley, Junction City, Lawrence, Manhattan, Topeka, Wamego and Westmoreland were arrested without incident, as well as people from Nebraska and Virginia.
The KBI says no children were victimized during the operation. Victim advocacy services were also presented to 2 potential sex trafficking victims. Authorities also seized “user-level” narcotics.
The KBI is using this investigation to remind residents that people can call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center at 888-373-7888 or text either INFO or HELP to 233733 or BeFree if they believe somebody is being trafficked for sexual abuse. The hotlines are staffed on a 24-7 basis and are confidential.
Tips about criminal activity, including sex abuse, can be reported by phone to the KBI at 800-KS-CRIME or by website at kbi.ks.gov/sar.
