COLUMBUS, Ohio—A coordinated, statewide human trafficking operation led by the Ohio Attorney General’s office resulted in the arrest of 135 individuals—including people seeking to buy sex from minors. Announced today by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, the initiative, dubbed “Operation Next Door,” involved over 100 law enforcement agencies across the state.
The Scope of “Operation Next Door”
Attorney General Yost named the operation to underscore the reality that human trafficking is not a distant problem, stating, “Too often, we are lulled into the false narrative that these crimes happen only in the shadows. This is simply not true—human trafficking occurs in plain sight and, unfortunately, may even be fueled by your co-workers or neighbors.”
The operation was spearheaded by human trafficking task forces under Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC). Law enforcement agencies from federal, state, and local levels collaborated to conduct the crackdown in diverse settings, including urban centers, suburban communities, and rural areas throughout Ohio.
Key Results and Survivor Aid
“Operation Next Door” targeted both the buyers of sex (known as “johns”) and those actively promoting or compelling trafficking. The results highlighted the successful collaboration and impact:
* 103 “Johns” Arrested: Individuals seeking to purchase sex were arrested and charged with engaging in prostitution or solicitation.
* 32 Felony Arrests: These arrests included charges such as promoting prostitution, compelling prostitution, seeking sex with a minor, and drug possession and/or trafficking.
* 67 Survivors Referred: Law enforcement successfully referred 67 human trafficking survivors to crucial health-care and social-services organizations for assistance.
* 9 Search Warrants Executed: Raids were conducted, including at various massage parlors in the Toledo, Cleveland, and Akron areas. Authorities seized more than $62,000 in cash, along with evidence to support long-term investigations.
The operation served as a major reminder of the prevalence of human trafficking and the commitment of Ohio law enforcement to combat both the demand side of sex work and the criminal organizations that perpetuate it.
