Long Beach Police Rescue Teenage Girl From Suspected Human Trafficking

Detectives located the 14-year-old girl in Los Angeles a few hours after she was reported missing.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Long Beach police rescued a 14-year-old girl who they believe may have been a victim of human trafficking. Detectives immediately began searching for the girl after receiving a report of her disappearance early Friday morning, and located her in Los Angeles a few hours later. The girl was then brought back to Long Beach and connected with resources through the Department of Children and Family Services.

Why it matters

Human trafficking, especially the exploitation of minors, is a serious and growing problem that requires a swift law enforcement response to rescue victims and hold perpetrators accountable. This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and police coordination in identifying and intervening in potential trafficking situations.

The details

According to the police statement, detectives determined the 14-year-old girl was possibly a victim of human trafficking and immediately began searching for her. After a few hours, they located her in Los Angeles and brought her back to Long Beach, where she was connected with support services through the Department of Children and Family Services.

  • On Friday morning, police received a report of the missing 14-year-old girl.
  • Within a few hours, detectives located the girl in Los Angeles.

The players

Long Beach Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that rescued the teenage girl and is investigating the suspected human trafficking case.

Department of Children and Family Services

The agency that provided support services to the rescued girl after she was brought back to Long Beach.

Wally Hebeish

The Long Beach Police Chief who stated that human trafficking and the exploitation of children will not be tolerated in the community.

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What they’re saying

“Human trafficking and the exploitation of children will never be tolerated in our community and the Long Beach Police Department will use all available resources to rescue the vulnerable victims of this reprehensible criminal activity.”

— Wally Hebeish, Long Beach Police Chief (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Detectives stated the investigation into the suspected human trafficking case is ongoing, and they are asking anyone with information to contact the Long Beach Police Department.

The takeaway

This rescue operation highlights the critical role of law enforcement in identifying and intervening in potential human trafficking situations, especially those involving minors. It underscores the need for continued community vigilance and coordination between police and social services to support victims and hold perpetrators accountable.