WEB DESK: Authorities in Florida have arrested 281 suspects, including 17 employees of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, during a week-long crackdown on human trafficking and individuals accused of targeting children for sexual exploitation.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd announced the arrests at a press conference on Friday, saying the joint operation was aimed at apprehending predators who travel to meet minors for illegal sexual activities and those involved in human trafficking.
According to Judd, 31 suspects travelled to Polk County intending to engage in sexual activity with a child. He confirmed that 13 of those arrested worked for Disney World, while four were employed by Universal Studios.
Describing the operation, the sheriff said authorities were deeply concerned by the number of individuals allegedly seeking sexual encounters with children, stressing the importance of undercover enforcement efforts.
Judd further disclosed that 32 suspects were undocumented immigrants, with 16 already transferred to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
He added that 24 suspects arrived at the planned meetings carrying firearms, while nine others were on probation at the time of their arrests.
