LPD discusses arrests made in human trafficking operations – FOX 34

Lubbock, Texas (KCBD) – Lubbock police and partner agencies advertise the success of six human trafficking operations in January.

Belinda House is a member of LPD crime suppression and vicees. She says that traffic is not in just one situation, but it can be anywhere at any time.

“They can be from a massage salon, they can be from ads that are published, known for prostitution ads, these websites. We also have street walkers that are there, “House said.

Spencer Hilliard, a member of the unit, encourages parents to remain involved in the use of social media of their children and to train them for remaining safe online and beyond traffic.

“These guys are professionals in what they do. They use different strategies to recruit staff and, you know, I encourage parents to participate, because they will be after those who are not so emotionally developed and may be abused a little in home life, “Hiliaard said. “So, I encourage parents to be aware (what) their children do online.”

House says traffic does not only happen overnight.

Instead, the perpetrator will build a connection with his victims to take advantage of them.

“The bunny will raise the girls, you know, show them love, buy them things and tell them that it will be better here than at home,” House said. “So these girls continue to leave their homes, thinking that they will get a better lifestyle when it is not a better lifestyle for them.”

January operations have identified four new cases.

The house says that everything it does is worth it as long as they save or change one life.

“If we manage to save a woman to have surgery and get her out of the game and bring her back to life, then it will be worth it because no girl is waking up and says,“ This is what I want you to do when I grow up “House said. “This is the kind of life I want to live,” it’s just not what someone dreams. ”

If you suspect human trafficking, you are strongly encouraged to call the hot line of human trafficking.

Lubbock also has organizations here to help.

Some of these organizations include a voice of hope, one voice and women’s defense services.

Copyright 2025 KCBD. All rights reserved.