In a significant development in Galveston County’s fight against human trafficking, 13 men have been indicted on s*x trafficking charges, marking a critical step in the region’s ongoing battle against this heinous crime. The investigation, which led to the arrest of 12 of these individuals, was set into motion following a report by a 20-year-old victim.
This case underscores the persistent issue of human trafficking in the Houston area, a region increasingly scrutinized for such illegal activities. Authorities suggest that more suspects and victims may still be uncovered, highlighting the pervasive nature of this global problem and the importance of continued vigilance and enforcement efforts.
The investigation into this case began months earlier, and prosecutors have disclosed that the victim suffered multiple assaults at the hands of Mr. Wright, including being forced into prostitution, a first-degree felony. Wright, who was out on bond for a previous domestic assault conviction, subjected the victim to physical violence, including punching, head slamming, choking, and suffocation.
This case highlights the widespread issue of human trafficking in the Houston area, known for its vulnerability to such crimes due to its major highways, airports, the Ship Channel, and proximity to the border. The Galveston County District Attorney’s Office emphasized the severity of these crimes as offenses against human dignity, vowing to prosecute to the fullest extent.
Kathy Griffin, a trafficking survivor and victim advocate, pointed out the mobility of these operations, with victims often being moved across state lines or through various counties, sometimes even by bus. For anyone suspecting human trafficking, help is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
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