Operation Reclaim and Rebuild: Single Tip Sparks Statewide Human Trafficking Takedown

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – A single citizen tip ignited Operation Reclaim and Rebuild, a sweeping, week-long human trafficking operation that rescued nearly 20 children, uncovered residential brothels, and led to more than 600 arrests across California, authorities said this week.

The multi-agency operation resulted in the rescue of 12 adults and five children in Los Angeles County alone. Robert Luna said the investigation began with a report about a suspicious home in Walnut, triggering months of surveillance that exposed multiple trafficking locations hidden in quiet suburban neighborhoods.

Authorities said the operation produced 611 arrests statewide, including suspected traffickers and hundreds of sex buyers. Officials have not yet specified how many cases will be charged as felony human trafficking versus lesser solicitation offenses.

Law enforcement revealed that victims were transported from across the country, including Illinois, Oklahoma, Missouri, tribal lands, and communities within California. Los Angeles Police Department Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton said traffickers repeatedly exploited young girls, some barely in their teens, as part of a coordinated, interstate network.

Nathan Hochman called the trafficking ring “modern slavery,” warning that Los Angeles County has become one of the nation’s major hubs for human sex trafficking. His office is now processing cases tied to the arrests, while law enforcement agencies continue monitoring known trafficking corridors to prevent the return of residential brothels.

Officials stressed that Operation Reclaim and Rebuild began because one resident spoke up, urging the public to report suspicious activity as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle trafficking networks permanently.

Latest Worthy News