BREAKING NEWS: Human Trafficking Bust a Success

Onyx Heights

May 23rd, 2023

Four men and three women have been charged with human trafficking following an Onyx Heights police investigation into the sexual exploitation of our vulnerable population.

The Onyx Heights Police Department said its Counter Exploitation Unit began investigating an alleged human trafficking operation back in February of 2023, and officers ultimately arrested seven suspects accused of victimizing vulnerable women and men on May 13th, 2023.

In a news release Onyx Heights PD Chief of Police, Ernesto Cruz, had this to to say:

“I can confirm with assistance from the FBI, a major human trafficking ring has been busted. The group was operating on the outskirts of town and those responsible have been arrested and are facing justice."

When Cruz was asked if he felt this bust would open a new gateway for other potential traffickers, Ernesto Cruz responded strongly, "Crimes such as these will not go unpunished. Such crimes are not tolerated in this municipality. No further questions will be answered at this time so that the investigation is not compromised."

Sex trafficking busts like this have happened in the past, but none of them have been this close to Onyx Heights. It is believed that while some were smuggled into the country from overseas, many were also of our vulnerable population and had been head hunted over an extended period of time. The chief has worked to make sure that all have returned home or provided new identities and lives.

What is the solution?

The current cost of living makes it difficult for more than half the population of Onyx Heights. Recent studies indicate that many are just one bad paycheck away from becoming homeless, and with little options available to them, they turn to a life of crime. Is the city doing enough to combat these problems?

Our reports reached out to Mayor Fox's office for comment, but were told the Mayor has left town to choose Playboy's next cover bunny.