A multi-agency operation, titled "Operation Phoenix", has resulted in the arrest of nine individuals and the rescue of 18 victims, one of them a minor, from a Colombian-based sex trafficking ring.

According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office, the report indicates the operation, spearheaded by the Law Enforcement Investigating Human Trafficking (LEIHT) Taskforce and the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), was kick-started in March 2022. This operation is one of the largest human trafficking operations in California to quickly halt such criminal activities.

The Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office detailed the investigation's commencement was based on the suspicious activities of a Colombian couple with prior human trafficking-related charges. This led to the exposure of a staggering 30,000 text messages and calls linked to a single prostitution dispatch number, shedding light on a network of brothels operating in South Bay hotel rooms.

Upon further investigation, it was found that the victims were mainly recruited from South America and Mexico and forced into sexual servitude. Regrettably, these individuals were confined to the hotel rooms without permission and were kept under constant surveillance. Threats towards their families were used to prevent escape attempts. Although 18 victims have been rescued, evidence suggests a total victim count that may exceed 30.

Participation from all levels of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies was key to the operation's success. District Attorney Jeff Rosen said, "Slavery was outlawed in this country in 1865. In 2023, we will not tolerate its despicable resurgence," indicating the firm stance against human trafficking.

The rescued victims are currently receiving support services, including counseling, medical aid, housing assistance, and economic recuperative efforts. A teenage victim from South America is receiving care and recovery support at the DA's Children's Advocacy Center.