Human Trafficking

"Regardless, it's an unfortunate reality that there are those, even right here in East Texas, that seek to prey on the most vulnerable among us."

According to Fire Chief Charles Hood, PBS reports people "were hot to the touch and dehydrated, and no water was found in the trailer."

Agencies are now providing "victim services and counseling to the recovered children and their families."

Not sure why we're seeing so much of this lately. But, every woman (and man) in East Texas needs to remain vigilant when it comes to personal safety.

The Nacogdoches County Sheriff's Office made a traffic stop that may have led to the rescue of a human trafficking victim

While some believe its a start to reforming the way Texas handles prostitution and sex work cases, others believe it could lead to endless tie ups in the legal system.

Demecia Shontres Washington will learn her fate later this year after being found guilty of crimes against a child she and a man trafficked for sex work.

Thanks to 'Operation Missing in the Metroplex', over 30 kids were either located, recovered or rescued in this multi-agency operation.

The 21 men now behind bars range in age from 26 to 65.

Operation Autumn Hope was a massive operation focused on human trafficking and the location and recovery of missing and exploited children.

Although he reportedly resisted arrest, sheriff's deputies were able to subdue and arrest Samuels relatively quickly.

Where they found her is where this story takes a turn.