In July, the FBI Jacksonville collaborated with various local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies for a nationwide endeavor known as Operation Cross Country XIII (OCC).
This FBI-led initiative, in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, had a primary focus on identifying and locating victims of sex trafficking.
Another significant objective of Operation Cross County XIII was to investigate and apprehend suspects involved in child sex crimes and human trafficking.
“Focusing on targeted operations, law enforcement agencies aimed to identify and capture offenders, dismantle criminal networks, and prevent further harm to the victims. OCC XIII achieved remarkable milestones in rescuing victims and apprehending offenders,” stated the FBI Jacksonville in a news release.
Nationally, the FBI played a pivotal role in locating over 200 victims of sex trafficking and arresting 126 individuals involved in child sexual exploitation or human trafficking offenses.
Within the local context, the FBI Jacksonville Division collaborated with 17 local, state, and federal agencies, leading to the recovery of two child trafficking victims and two adult trafficking victims. Additionally, law enforcement arrested 16 individuals for attempting to meet with a minor.
Sheriff T.K. Waters of Jacksonville emphasized the reality of human trafficking in the community and reported that the local investigation resulted in 30 arrests over a two-day period. Among those arrested were Robert Horvath and Michael Brockway.
Sherri E. Onks, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Jacksonville, acknowledged the severity of sex trafficking and child exploitation cases, highlighting the FBI’s aggressive pursuit of perpetrators. She expressed that Operation Cross Country sends a strong message that exploiting others will not be tolerated, and through collaboration with partners, these offenders will be apprehended.
Operation Cross Country reflects just one of the FBI’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the most vulnerable members of society and hold offenders accountable.
For reporting tips, individuals can contact 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit https://tips.fbi.gov.
Participating Agencies:
- Nassau County Sheriff’s Office
- Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office
- Marion County Sheriff’s Office
- Ocala Police Department
- Air Force Office of Special Investigations
- Bay County Sheriff’s Office
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Jackson County Sheriff’s Office
- Lynn Haven Police Department
- Panama City Police Department
- Panama City Beach Police Department
- U.S. Marshals Service
- Escambia County Sheriff’s Office
- Florida Department of Children and Families
- Naval Criminal Investigative Services
