A two-week, nationwide anti-sex trafficking operation spearheaded by the FBI identified and located 200 victims and identified or arrested dozens of suspects.

The FBI said that “Operation Cross-Country” located 59 juveniles who were victims of child sexual exploitation and child sex trafficking.

“Sex traffickers exploit and endanger some of the most vulnerable members of our society and cause their victims unimaginable harm,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. ” … We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners across the country to prevent human trafficking; increase detection, investigation, and prosecution of human trafficking crimes; and expand support and services to protect and empower survivors.”

The FBI worked in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for the operation, along with state and local partners in the operation aimed at identifying and apprehending offenders, “dismantling criminal networks, and preventing further harm to victims.”

The suspects identified are also being further investigated for any other potential charges. The victims have been provided with victim specialists to aid them with “crisis intervention, emergency food and clothing, transportation to receive emergency services, and locating shelter or housing.”

Behind every statistic, there is a person with dreams, aspirations, and the right to live a life free from child sex trafficking and exploitation. As a society we must work together to ensure the protection, support, and empowerment of those impacted by this heinous crime.” said Michelle DeLaune, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

“We applaud the FBI and their partner law enforcement agencies for their unwavering dedication to protecting children,” she said. “Their tireless efforts in combatting crimes against children sends a powerful message that child sexual exploitation will not be tolerated.”

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[Featured image: An FBI agents communicates with other agents on the ground during Operation Cross Country/US Department of Justice]