Several area law enforcement agencies partook in a campaign to combat human trafficking across the United States. Dubbed “Coast to Coast” with a grassroots effort involving 12 states with the common goals of identifying trafficking victims, offering these victims much-needed services, arresting traffickers, and making communities safer.
The Burlington Police Department, Ottumwa PD, and Wapello County Sheriff’s Office all took part in this operation on August 22nd. Seventeen adults were contacted and offered food, lodging, medical services, drug rehabilitation, counseling/therapy, and childcare. Seven adults were contacted, detained, or identified during this operation.