TBI Newsroom: 32 Arrested in Knoxville Human Trafficking Operation

KNOXVILLE – A three-day operation by Special Agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and detectives with the Knoxville Police Department to combat human trafficking in Knoxville has resulted in the arrest of 32 men and women on prostitution and human trafficking-related charges. Two of the men, including a children’s minister, responded to ads for what they thought were girls under the age of 18. The Knoxville anti-trafficking operation, called “Operation Someone Like Me”, is the fifth operation of its kind in the state between the TBI and partner agencies to help identify, investigate and prosecute trafficking, and rescue victims.

End Slavery Tennessee is grateful to be involved in operations like these. "Operation Someone Like Me" brings to light what hides in the darkness. Two staff personnel from End Slavery Tennessee were present for this particular operation, offering services to victims looking for a fresh start. 

As TBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Margie Quin states,“We’re changing the conversation about human trafficking. These operations are designed to identify and help victims of trafficking, as well as take these predators off the street."

And End Slavery Tennessee is right there with them. Working to provide holistic healing to survivors of human trafficking while simultaneously working to create systemic change in our communities and throughout our state. Through legislation, education and awareness events.