Disney workers, deputy and youth coach among 281 arrested in Polk County human trafficking sting
Katherine oversees editorial operations across all six brands. Before joining The Meridan Group, she spent 14 years at the Minneapolis Star Tribune, where she led the metro desk through its digital transformation. She holds a Master's in Journalism from Northwestern's Medill School.
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A multi-agency undercover operation focused on human trafficking and child predators ended with 281 arrests in Polk County, according to the sheriff’s office. Polk County human trafficking bustA week-long undercover crackdown dubbed "Polk Around and Find Out II" focused directly on human trafficking and child sexual predators. Detectives and partner agencies arrested 281 people during the seven-day sting. Authorities confirmed 239 arrests involved soliciting prostitutes, offering prostitution, or aiding, abetting and transporting prostitutes. Detectives also arrested 31 suspected child sexual predators and took 11 other people into custody. Theme park workers arrested in stingThe suspects include workers from Central Florida attractions, law enforcement and youth sports. Investigators arrested 17 theme park employees, including 13 from Disney and four from Universal Studios. An Orange County deputy sheriff, a youth football coach and an active-duty Navy sailor are also among those arr