Predators and traffickers don’t stop at state lines, and we don’t either.
In August 2025, the first surge operation of the Interstate Justice Coalition put that reality into sharp focus. For two days, teams worked across Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, bringing together three independent nonprofits working in trafficking prevention work including Our Rescue, Skull Games Solutions, and We Fight Monsters, and alongside law enforcement and survivor service partners, to disrupt trafficking networks and support survivors.
“An alliance of hope is hard to beat,” said Special Agent Robert Akers 30th Judicial District West TN Violent Crime and Drug Task Force.
Weeks of preparation began with Advanced Human Trafficking Training, conducted by Skull Games Solutions. Officers sharpened their skills with innovative training in crucial counter-trafficking strategies and digital intelligence. These skills were swiftly applied in the field. Working side by side with the three nonprofit partners, investigators tracked leads, identified trafficking activity, and located survivors who needed immediate help.
“This first surge operation under the Interstate Justice Coalition shows what can be accomplished when law enforcement and nonprofits come together with one mission—protecting the vulnerable,” said Derek Benner, CEO of Our Rescue. “No one organization can stop trafficking alone, so we are grateful for the collaboration of dozens of law enforcement agencies determined to stop this crime.”
By the operation’s end, teams had found 32 potential victims and connected 26 of them to services, ensuring they received essentials, counseling, and safe housing. Investigators located 12 suspected traffickers and made 15 arrests, removing individuals accused of sex trafficking and exploitation from the community. Every recovery effort and arrest came from coordinated and collaborative action, acting quickly as one team.
Notably, one of the investigations even resulted in the safe recovery of an infant after their caretaker fled arrest.
“Every time police, nonprofits, private businesses, medical professionals, and advocates come together, good things happen,” said Nate Davis, Our Rescue VP of Mission in North America. “This operation proved that when dedicated people share a common goal and a heart for service, they can achieve incredible results.”
This Surge Operation extended beyond enforcement. Survivor-focused organizations, including Hope Foundation, Center for Violence Prevention, and Restore Corps, were ready to step in the moment officers brought someone to safety. Their presence ensured that healing could begin immediately.
The Interstate Justice Coalition shows what’s possible when law enforcement, nonprofits, and survivor care services work together, proving that coordinated action can reach survivors, arrest traffickers, and create a stronger, unified response to trafficking.
This first Surge Operation proved what’s possible when no one fights this crime alone.