• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Digital News Updates
  • Home
  • News
  • Politics
  • Business

Eight Arrested in Human Trafficking Operation in Missoula

October 26, 2024

A human trafficking operation conducted this week by the Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), along with the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office and the Missoula Police Department, resulted in the arrest of eight individuals, Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced today.

All individuals were arrested on pending charges of patronizing a prostitute, with one facing additional charges for the distribution of dangerous drugs. These arrests fall under Montana’s new statute from House Bill 112, which elevates solicitation of a prostitute to a felony—a measure that Attorney General Knudsen played a key role in drafting and passing during the 2023 Legislative Session.

“Human trafficking is a heinous crime and must be stopped,” Knudsen stated. “I am proud of our DCI investigators and law enforcement partners for their commitment to getting these dangerous predators off the streets. Ending human trafficking remains a priority for the Montana Department of Justice. We must tell human traffickers that their criminal activity will not be tolerated in Montana.”

Missoula County Sheriff Jeremiah Petersen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the risks posed to communities by such illegal activities. “The great work done this week with our law enforcement partners creates safer communities for both children and adults,” he said.

The operation highlights the importance of recognizing potential indicators of sex trafficking. These may include:

– A young person who is hesitant to engage in conversation, with downcast eyes and avoidance of eye contact, particularly with men.
– Signs of poor physical health, such as fatigue, malnourishment, or indications of physical abuse.
– Difficulty responding to basic questions about their identity or location.
– Inappropriate clothing for the weather, such as shorts or tank tops in winter.
– Lack of control over personal belongings, including money, IDs, or documents.
– Being accompanied by a dominating or controlling individual, often someone who seems out of place in relation to the victim.
– Young individuals loitering outside convenience stores or similar locations, approaching unknown vehicles or individuals.

Authorities urge anyone who suspects they may be witnessing human trafficking to take action. In emergencies, call 911. Do not intervene directly with suspected traffickers; maintain a safe distance or stay in your vehicle. For non-emergency situations, individuals can contact 1-833-406-STOP (1-833-406-7867) or chat with an advocate at 406stop.com. If safe, taking images of the suspected traffickers, victims, and vehicle license plates can also aid in investigations.

By: DNU staff

Filed Under: News

Related Articles:

  • Public Comment Open for Draft Idaho Mountain Goat Management Plan Through June 8
  • Wyoming Public Safety Communications Commission to Meet May 28–29 in Casper
  • North Dakota Reports Slight Dip in Q1 2025 Taxable Sales
  • Montana State chemist receives Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award
  • Officials Urge Caution on Roads as “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” Begin
  • Gianforte Continues 56 County Tour

Primary Sidebar

Digital News Updates Logo

Recent News Posts

  • Gianforte Continues 56 County Tour
  • Law enforcement agencies in 40 states are partnering with ICE 287(g) program
  • Gallatin College MSU’s online courses expand to meet nontraditional student needs
  • UM Video Game Team Scores National Championship

Recent Politics Posts

  • Sheehy Fulfills Campaign Promise With Blind Trust
  • Watchdogs: New Montana law restricting foreign money in elections insufficient
  • Knudsen Urges Gallatin County to Support ICE Partnership
  • Zinke Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Foreign Military Sales Notification Process

Recent Business Posts

  • Poll: College not preparing students for workforce, managers avoid hiring them
  • Bridger Aerospace Lands Record-Breaking Wildfire Contracts for Super Scooper Aircraft
  • Daktronics to Participate in Craig-Hallum’s 22nd Annual Institutional Investor Conference
  • Microsoft Marks 50th Anniversary

Copyright © 2025 Digital News Updates, All Rights Reserved.