Summary
In Texas, more than 30 missing children were found during an operation focused on stopping human traffickers. The operation was carried out by the U.S. Marshals Service and San Antonio Police Department, among others. The effort also resulted in several arrests and the recovery of trafficking survivors.
Key Facts
- Over 30 missing children were found in Texas through an operation targeting human traffickers.
- The operation was called Operation Lightning Bug and took place from July 28 to August 15.
- U.S. Marshals Service and San Antonio Police Department led the effort, with support from other agencies.
- Six trafficking survivors were found, and nine felony arrest warrants were executed.
- The operation launched five new human trafficking investigations.
- The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, passed in 2015, helped the U.S. Marshals with authority in these cases.
- Texas Health and Human Services is helping the recovered children.
- Over 120 additional juveniles were encouraged to return home, clearing their names from databases.
