BLYTHEVILLE, Ark. — Four suspects were taken into custody Dec. 5 following a multi-agency operation targeting an alleged human trafficking organization operating in the region, according to the Blytheville Police Department.
The coordinated effort involved Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the FBI, Arkansas State Police, the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro Police Department, Osceola Police Department, and the 2nd Judicial Drug Task Force. Officers executed the planned operation without incident.
According to Blytheville Police, the investigation developed through intelligence gathering, surveillance and cooperation across several jurisdictions. Authorities say the individuals arrested are accused of exploiting vulnerable victims, with activity reported throughout Mississippi County and surrounding areas.
Charges include promoting prostitution in the second degree, engaging in conduct with a criminal gang, criminal conspiracy and other related offenses. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation progresses. Names of the suspects have not yet been released.
Assistant Chief Vanessa Stewart said the department’s focus is the safety of victims and accountability for those involved.
“This operation sends a clear message: if you come to our community to exploit, traffic, or harm others, we will find you, we will investigate you, and we will bring every available resource to stop you,” Stewart said. “Our priority has always been the safety and dignity of every person living in or passing through Mississippi County.”
Police also addressed what they described as widespread rumors circulating online. Officials stated that the operation was not an ICE sweep, nor did it involve enforcement actions related to immigration status.
“Our residents deserve accurate information,” the statement read. “There were no immigration-related sweeps conducted. This was a targeted human-trafficking investigation aimed solely at criminal actors.”
Victim services have been activated, and officials say support resources are being made available. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information or who believes they may be a victim of this organization is urged to contact the Blytheville Police Department.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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