Kansas law enforcement arrests 19 in sex trafficking operation

Nineteen individuals were arrested during a joint law enforcement operation targeting sex buyers and offenders attempting to meet children for sexual acts in Riley and Geary Counties, Kansas. The operation, conducted on September 17 and 18, was led by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) in partnership with the Riley County Police Department, Geary County Sheriff’s Office, and Junction City Police Department.

Ten suspects were arrested on allegations of electronic solicitation of a child and attempted aggravated human trafficking. These individuals include residents from Manhattan, Lawrence, Wamego, Abilene, Westmoreland, and Topeka, as well as a 29-year-old man from Lincoln, Nebraska, who is expected to face federal charges. These suspects were booked into the Riley County Jail.

An additional eight individuals were arrested for allegations of buying sexual relations and unlawful use of a communications facility, including residents from Fort Riley and Junction City, as well as a man from North Chesterfield, Virginia. These suspects were booked into the Geary County Jail. One woman from Topeka was also arrested for allegedly selling sexual relations.

Authorities reported that no children were victimized during the operation, though victim advocacy services were offered to three potential sex trafficking victims. Narcotics were also seized during the investigation. Formal charges are currently pending.