by Tammy Lee, CEO of OUR Rescue
Eight months ago, I became the CEO of OUR Rescue. I’m launching this blog to create a space where we can have candid discussions about the challenges we face in combating sex trafficking and child exploitation. I hope that, together, we can bring about change through action and advocacy.
In this first post, I’d like to address two troubling cases that showcase why our work and this fight remains critical. These are reminders that sex trafficking and child exploitation can occur anywhere where vulnerable people are victimized by people in positions of power and trust.
Abercrombie & Fitch’s ex-CEO arrested for sex trafficking
Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and two associates have been charged with 16 counts of sex trafficking and interstate prostitution. The charges stem from an alleged international sex trafficking operation that exploited young men—prospective models—between 2008 and 2015. That’s seven years of sickening acts of sexual violence. This is the latest example of a high-profile figure and abuse of power that comes just one month after Sean “Diddy” Combs was jailed and awaits trial for racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, cause or coercion and transportation to engage in prostitution charges.
A well-respected pediatrician exploiting patients aged 8-12
I participated in an operation in Ecuador that is one of OUR Rescue’s most disturbing cases because it was a pediatrician accused of preying on his young patients. Earlier this year, our police partners received a tip that a well-known pediatrician, Pablo Aníbal I.P., was producing and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online. OUR Rescue and U.S. law enforcement worked with the Ecuadorian authorities to arrest the doctor in his home. Our team provided their Ecuadorian counterparts with training, cyber tools, and technology. The evidence found with the help of OUR Rescue’s digital forensics team and K9 detective will aid in the prosecution of this dangerous man charged with abusing Quito’s innocent children.
Together, we can stop these heinous crimes
The battle against these heinous crimes is complex and multi-faceted, but together, through awareness, action, and advocacy, we are bringing about change. We will not rest until we have accomplished our mission: To end sex trafficking and child exploitation while empowering survivors to reclaim their lives and thrive on their healing journey.
Thank you for joining this fight.
— Tammy Lee, CEO, OUR Rescue