A recent sting operation in Bloomington, Minnesota, resulted in the arrest of 16 men on charges of attempting to solicit a minor for sex. The Bloomington Police Department, led by Chief Booker Hodges, conducted the operation, which targeted individuals seeking to exploit a 17-year-old girl. Among those arrested was an employee of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), identified as an auditor, who allegedly invoked his position during the arrest, stating, “I’m ICE, boys.” The suspects range in age from 18 to 52, highlighting the diverse demographic of individuals involved in such crimes.
Chief Hodges expressed his dismay at the incident, questioning the motives of those who engage in this type of exploitation. The arrests underscore the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat sex trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals, particularly minors. The case serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of child exploitation and the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to deter such crimes. It also raises serious concerns about the conduct and accountability of government employees, especially those in positions of authority.