Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost says aggressive enforcement and collaboration are making a real impact in the fight against human trafficking across the state.
According to Yost, task forces operating under the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission have led dozens of major cases this year, resulting in arrests, convictions, and the rescue of victims statewide. The efforts focus on reducing demand by targeting those who buy and exploit victims, while also dismantling organized trafficking networks.
“Our message is simple: don’t buy sex in Ohio,” Yost said. “Every arrest and every rescue brings us closer to ending human trafficking in our state.”
In 2025 alone, task forces conducted multiple large-scale operations, including Operation Next Door, which resulted in dozens of arrests and the recovery of victims across the state. Investigations also led to lengthy prison sentences for traffickers, including life sentences in some cases.
The Attorney General’s Office says these efforts are made possible through collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement, along with victim advocates who help survivors rebuild their lives.
Officials say the work will continue as part of an ongoing commitment to protect vulnerable individuals and hold traffickers accountable.
