In naming its latest statewide human trafficking operation, the Ohio Attorney General’s Organized Crime Investigations Commission chose “Operation Next Door” as a way to bring home the message that the people committing these crimes are not distant strangers. They may, indeed, live right next door.

With the help of more than 100 law enforcement agencies, 135 people were arrested for seeking to buy sex — some of them from minors, according to state Attorney General Dave Yost’s office.

Of those 135, three were from Athens and Washington counties — from Glouster, Marietta and Belpre. Just next door.

In total, 103 were arrested for seeking to buy sex; 32 were arrested on felony charges including prostitution, compelling prostitution, seeking sex with a minor and drug possession and/or trafficking. Sixty-seven human trafficking survivors were referred to health care and social services organizations. Nine search warrants were executed on massage parlors in Toledo, the Cleveland area and the Akron area.

“Homeland Security Investigations is proud to stand with the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission in the fight against human trafficking,” said Homeland Security Investigations Detroit Acting Special-Agent-in-Charge Matt Stentz. “These operations demonstrate the power of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies to dismantle trafficking networks, rescue victims, and hold perpetrators accountable. Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and HSI remains committed to leveraging our expertise and resources to protect the vulnerable, support survivors, and ensure that justice is served. Together, we are making Ohio a safer place for all.”

Indeed, the law enforcement and other organizations who made Operation Next Door happen ARE working to keep us safer. But 135 is just a drop in the bucket, and they know it. While we applaud their effort, we must keep in mind Yost’s warning: “Human trafficking occurs in plain sight and, unfortunately, may even be fueled by your co-workers or neighbors.”

Don’t turn a blind eye. If something doesn’t seem right, use the non-emergency hotline 844-END-OHHT (844-363-6448) to report it. If you are witnessing a true emergency, call 911. Stay alert, don’t stay silent.