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BERRIEN COUNTY — 15 arrests were made in Berrien County on Wednesday during a targeted human trafficking and sex trafficking enforcement operation, according to the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office.

The multi-agency effort focused on identifying traffickers and assisting victims of trafficking. In total, 15 arrests were made for sex exploitation-related crimes. One additional arrest was made for outstanding warrants.

The operation was conducted by the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with the Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department, the Michigan City Police Department and the Michigan State Police Southwest Enforcement Team.

Authorities stated that the arrests were part of an ongoing initiative to combat human trafficking and provide immediate access to victim-centered resources and support.

“The priority of these operations is not just to make arrests. It’s to identify victims, connect them with services, and send a clear message that trafficking will not be tolerated in our communities. Human trafficking happens in every community, including our own,” the BCSO stated in a news release. “These operations are as much about saving lives as they are about enforcing the law. Every person we reach represents an opportunity to intervene, support, and protect. Law enforcement agencies across the region continue to coordinate operations and share intelligence to identify traffickers, disrupt their networks, and ensure that survivors receive access to advocacy and care services.”

Victims of sex trafficking and human trafficking are encouraged to seek help and support. Services are available 24 hours a day and all reports remain confidential. The National Human Trafficking Hotline number is 1 (888) 373-7888 (Text “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733).