Nine men were arrested in a Hot Springs human trafficking investigation led by Tim Griffin and his Special Investigations Division.
According to Griffin, the multi-agency operation targeted individuals accused of arranging to pay for sex through online platforms. All nine men were charged with sexual solicitation, a Class A misdemeanor. Investigators say some of the women advertised on the sites were victims of human trafficking.
For the past two years, authorities have focused on dismantling illicit massage businesses and related operations. That effort has resulted in seven prior arrests — including one mid-level ringleader — and services provided to 30 victims. This week’s enforcement shifted focus to the demand side of the operation.
Griffin called the conduct “despicable” and said it perpetuates human trafficking in Arkansas communities.
Agencies assisting included Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, the Garland County Sheriff’s Office, the Hot Springs Police Department, the Little Rock Police Department, and the Arkansas State Police.
Those arrested were Vicente Santos, 46; David Hicks, 22; Jacob Benson, 32; Edward Freeman, 22; Antron Pearson, 37; Isaias Martinez-Sanchez, 30; Michael McConnell, 32; Carthon Cooper, 27; and Gustavo Gonzalez, 28.
Watch the Full Press Conference: Nine Men Arrested in Human Trafficking Investigation, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin Announces Below:
Leave a Reply