Local law enforcement officials today announced a human trafficking round-up that netted 46 suspects.
Bexar Co. Sheriff Susan Pamerleau, joined by Dept. of Homeland Security Special Agent In-Charge Vincent Iglio, State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, the district attorney and representatives from SAPD, announced the results of a sting operation Jan. 11 on the Southside of San Antonio.
Pamerleau said the FBI and Texas Dept. of Public Safety were also involved in the "Blue Ice" operation in which several of the suspects were apprehended by undercover officers posing in person and online as “johns” and underage victims.
No child victims were rescued in the operation, and the perpetrators ranged in age from 17 to 60. Most were charged with prostitution. Some had secondary charges related to guns, theft and drugs.
Pamerleau said one of those arrested for online solicitation was Stinson Middle School social studies teacher Douglas Allen Grant, who was charged with soliciting prostitution.
The 46 arrests included a civilian employee of the sheriff’s department and an EMT who was charged with trying to buy sex with a 15-year-old girl from an undercover officer.
Homeland Security Agent Iglio said two of those arrested would be subject to deportation.
Senator Van de Putte said she has filed three bills this session related to human and sex trafficking, including one to make it easier for victims of human trafficking to become survivors.
