Deputies in Harris County, Texas, put the squeeze on local prostitution and potential human trafficking in a sting operation that led to over a dozen arrests, according to officials. On February 22, Constable Mark Herman's Criminal Investigations Division and Special Operations Unit wrapped up a multi-day crusade against illicit activities plaguing the FM 1960 corridor, prompted by community outcry.

The effort ended with 13 men, aged from their 20s up to their 60s, cuffed and charged for trying their luck with undercover deputies posing as prostitutes, the operation also ensnared individuals for drug possession and unlawful weapon carrying, one offender was even tagged with a Felony Theft Warrant. Details about the operations were shared in a Facebook post from Constable Herman’s office.

In an ongoing battle against human trafficking, the identities of female suspects nabbed in the sting remain under wraps as the investigation continues to unfold, signaling a deeper menace behind the veil of street-level sex work. Herman's office emphasized their commitment to removing prostitution from local haunts, linking it directly to the scourge of human trafficking that often targets vulnerable migrant women.

"Precinct 4 has taken a firm stance on identifying and assisting Human Trafficking victims and eradicating prostitution from the neighborhoods and businesses in our area," Constable Mark Herman's office was firm on their stance in a statement, "Prostitution is one of the prime driving forces behind human trafficking and with felony penalties, the demand for paid sex will be reduced." The sting, highlights the office’s priority in safeguarding community terrain from suspected sexual predators. The precinct urges anyone with knowledge of spots condoning prostitution to dial in at 281-376-3472 or drop a tip on their website, assuring anonymity for all whistleblowers.