REAL B / NEWS

281 ARRESTED IN POLK COUNTY STING TARGETING CHILD PREDATORS AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING

A seven-day undercover operation in Polk County, Florida resulted in 281 arrests and 488 new criminal charges, authorities announced October 30.

Operation “Polk Around and Find Out II” involved two investigations: one targeting adults allegedly traveling to meet minors for sex, and another focused on human trafficking and prostitution. Authorities said 31 of the arrests involved suspected child predators and 11 potential trafficking victims were identified and offered services.

Seventeen theme-park employees were among those arrested, including 13 associated with Disney and four with Universal. An Orange County sheriff’s deputy, a youth football coach and an active-duty Navy service member were also among the suspects.

The operation produced 198 felony charges, according to the Florida Attorney General’s Office. Authorities said the suspects came from across Florida, 20 other states and 18 countries.

VIDEO / POLK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

REAL B note: These are arrests and allegations, not convictions. The cases will have to be decided in court.

Source: NBC 6 South Florida; Florida’s Voice; Florida Attorney General and Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

REAL B / NEWS • NOVEMBER 1, 2026

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