37 Teens Rescued in Southern California Human Trafficking Operation

Federal agents and local law enforcement arrested 7 people, including someone connected to child sex trafficking.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal agents and local law enforcement rescued 37 teens during a week-long human trafficking operation in Southern California called "Operation Safe Return". The U.S. Marshals Service said the operation focused on finding critically missing children who are at high risk of abuse, violence, and sexual exploitation. Agents and law enforcement also arrested 7 people, including one connected to child sex trafficking.

Why it matters

Human trafficking, especially of minors, is a major problem in the U.S. that often goes undetected. This operation highlights the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement to locate missing children and disrupt trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable youth.

The details

The U.S. Marshals Service partnered with the Riverside County Sheriff's Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force and other Southern California agencies to identify over 50 missing teens between 14 and 17 years old. Of those, 37 were located and provided victim advocacy services, medical support, and resources to reunite with their families or guardians. In addition to the Riverside County agencies, the operation involved the California Highway Patrol, Anaheim Police, LAPD, FBI, Homeland Security, and the Secret Service.

  • The week-long operation took place in March 2026.

The players

U.S. Marshals Service

The primary federal law enforcement agency that led the human trafficking operation.

Riverside County Sheriff's Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force

A local law enforcement task force that partnered with federal agencies on the operation.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

A victim advocacy organization that provided resources to the rescued teens.

Riverside University Health System

A community health organization that offered medical support and resources to the rescued teens.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The U.S. Marshals Service and local law enforcement will continue to work with victim advocacy groups to ensure the rescued teens receive the support and resources they need.

The takeaway

This operation demonstrates the crucial role of coordinated, multi-agency efforts in combating human trafficking, especially the exploitation of vulnerable minors. It highlights the need for ongoing vigilance and community-wide collaboration to address this persistent problem.