A two-day law enforcement operation in Scottsdale has culminated in the arrests of 42 individuals accused of involvement in various sex crimes, including child sex trafficking and prostitution. Carried out on July 12-13, the sting targeted "sex buyers, child predators, and individuals involved with the sex trade and trafficking," as per the statement from the Scottsdale Police Department mentioned in FOX 10 Phoenix. The effort was facilitated by multiple law enforcement agencies, including teams from Goodyear, Avondale, and Surprise.

While the operation aimed to crack down on human exploitation, the use of decoys meant "no children directly involved," Scottsdale Police clarified in a report by FOX 10 Phoenix. Arrests made spanned across a spectrum of crimes, accounting for 11 felonies and 31 misdemeanors. Given the nature of the crimes, the names of those arrested during the sting have been withheld.

A statement obtained by 12 News from the Scottsdale Police highlighted the diverse range of charges brought against the suspects. "Within the 42 arrests, there were 11 felonies and 31 misdemeanors with charges including child sex trafficking, pandering, prostitution, drug possession, and various other criminal activities," said the police. This operation is a part of the department's dedication to "combating exploitation and trafficking in our community and ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals," the Department emphasized.

In supporting the effort to protect those at risk, the multi-agency sting reflects a larger commitment that spans beyond Scottsdale's city limits. By banding together, police departments from Goodyear, Avondale, and Surprise also participated, which contributed to the success of the endeavor. These arrests send a clear message that law enforcement agencies are tirelessly working to dismantle networks of exploitation that prey on the vulnerable.