FIFE — In an action aimed at combating human trafficking and prostitution, the Washington State Patrol has arrested nearly a dozen individuals in an overnight operation dubbed “Operation Human Freight.” 

The operation, which took place Nov. 25, was orchestrated by the WSP’s Commercial Vehicle Division in response to reported suspicious activities near truck stops in Pierce, King and Snohomish counties.  

“This operation demonstrates our determination to hold traffickers accountable and safeguard vulnerable members of our community. We will continue to work closely with our local, state, and federal partners to disrupt these criminal networks,” Chief John Batiste of the WSP said. 

On the night of the operation, detectives established a strategic base at a truck stop located in northern Pierce County along the busy Interstate 5 corridor. The focus of the enforcement effort was twofold: to identify those promoting prostitution and to offer assistance to potential victims of human trafficking. Within the span of just eight hours, officers managed to contact 11 women, all of whom were determined to be victims of prostitution and/or human trafficking. 

Among those arrested was a 41-year-old man from Tacoma, who was apprehended for human trafficking and promoting prostitution, adding to his extensive criminal record with 19 prior felony convictions. In total, several individuals were arrested for a range of offenses, including: 

• RCW 9A.40.100 — Trafficking, second degree
• RCW 9A.88.070 — Promoting prostitution, first degree
• RCW 9A.88.080 — Promoting prostitution, second degree
• RCW 46.61.502 — Driving under the influence 

The operation was a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Fife Police Department, Tacoma Police Department, Lakewood Police Department, Seattle Police Department, and various federal agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office and advocacy group Rebuilding Hope.