Multi-jurisdiction operation ends in dozens of arrests across Valley
May 11, 2022, 4:15 AM
PHOENIX — A multi-jurisdiction law enforcement operation targeting suspects seeking illegal sex acts online resulted in the arrests of 29 people across the Valley, authorities said Monday.
The Phoenix Police Department Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit recently partnered with police departments in Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale and Surprise, as well as the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the FBI, Arizona Attorney Generals Office and Homeland Security Investigations, for Operation April Fools.
Authorities said undercover detectives during the operation placed ads on websites commonly sought out by those seeking illegal sex acts.
The suspects allegedly solicited or brokered deals for various sex acts and were arrested, authorities said.
Phoenix police said operations like this are conducted routinely in an effort to reduce the demand for child sex trafficking and exploitation of children.
