Othello Police Arrest Seven in Human Trafficking Operation

The Othello Police Department busted seven men for patronizing a prostitute, recently.

The two-day operation focused on the supply and demand for commercial sex and human sex trafficking in the region. It's definitely an ongoing issue in our communities.

The Men Were Arrested After Attempting to Pay Women for Sexual Acts. They Are:

Denis Y. Kutsiy (44) of Pasco
John Douglas Peterson (58) of Kennewick
Leandro Daniel Carillo (42) of Moses Lake
Roberto Martinez-Gonzalez (32) of Ephrata
Stephen E. Eilers (49) of Royal City
Andriy G. Opalko (36) of Moses Lake
Eduardo Ortega-Cruz (35) of Royal City

All of the men arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

3 Women From Tri-Cities Were Engaging in Illicit Sex Acts for Money

The women ranged in age from 34-43 years old and traveled from Pasco and Kennewick. One woman was arrested for an outstanding warrant, ands taken to jail. The women were detained, interviewed, and referred to Mirror Ministries for assiistance and resources in finding alternatives to their criminal lifestyle.

The investigation turned up more than prostitution. According to the Othello Police Department:

During the course of the operation, investigators developed leads on a potential human sex trafficker, identified a potential drug trafficker, and obtained information pertaining to a recent robbery.

If You Are a Victim of Human Trafficking Help Is Available

If you have information about human trafficking or suspect someone you know may be a victim, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

Get our free mobile app

25 True Crime Locations: What Do They Look Like Today?

Below, find out where 25 of the most infamous crimes in history took place — and what the locations are used for today. (If they've been left standing.)

LOOK: The biggest scams today and how you can protect yourself from them

Using data from the BBB Scam Tracker Annual Risk Report, Stacker identified the most common and costly types of scams in 2022.

LOOK: What major laws were passed the year you were born?

Data for this list was acquired from trusted online sources and news outlets. Read on to discover what major law was passed the year you were born and learn its name, the vote count (where relevant), and its impact and significance.

Gallery Credit: Katelyn Leboff