The sex trafficking trade has become a major problem in Minnesota, as well as in other parts of the country. However, as with any other crime, any persons accused of a sex crime remain innocent until — and only if — proved guilty in a court of law. Four individuals were recently arrested in Minnesota under accusations of being involved in sex trafficking, but no conviction can be obtained without the presentation of evidence that is both relevant and competent.
The sting allegedly began on an undisclosed date when the Bemidji Police Department teamed up with other law enforcement entities, including the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, the Minneapolis Police Department and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Seven of these law enforcement officers supposedly began posing as children online. The officers purportedly posted ads on multiple websites that they claim are often used for the purpose of solicitation.
The investigation ultimately led to the arrest of four individuals. However, the details of the alleged sting operation, as well as whatever evidence the law enforcement officers claim to have against these men is entirely unclear. Regardless, the men, ages 24, 52, 59 and 62, have each been arrested on unspecified criminal charges.
When an individual is accused of committing a sex crime, the accusation carries serious potential consequences, such as imprisonment and having to register as a sex offender. However, these four individuals retain specific legal rights in Minnesota, and they would do well to safeguard these rights. Among these rights is the right to form their own criminal defenses. They may make their own decisions in their defenses, allowing them to choose whichever path they deem to be most beneficial.
Source: mprnews.com, “Four arrested in Bemidji child sex trafficking sting“, Riham Feshir, March 12, 2015