MIAMI, Fla. — A major undercover operation targeting online predators has led to the arrest of 15 individuals, including a teenager, in connection with alleged attempts to solicit minors for sex, authorities confirmed.
The Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office announced Friday that the arrests were part of a two-day sting known as “Operation Wrong Turn,” conducted between April 22 and April 23, 2026.
Undercover Operation Uncovers Online Exploitation Attempts
According to prosecutors, law enforcement officials posed as minors online and posted advertisements designed to attract individuals seeking illegal encounters. Suspects who responded were informed they were communicating with underage girls.
Despite being made aware of the victims’ age, investigators say the suspects continued conversations and allegedly agreed to pay for sexual acts.
Once arrangements were finalized, the individuals were directed to a location in Miami, where they believed they would meet the minors. Instead, they encountered undercover officers and were taken into custody without incident.
Serious Charges Filed Against Suspects
All 15 individuals are currently being held without bond and face multiple charges, including:
- Human trafficking
- Use of prohibited computer services
- Traveling to meet a minor for illegal sexual activity
Authorities confirmed that one of those arrested is a minor, identified only by initials.
In addition, one suspect had already been flagged by Homeland Security Investigations as part of an ongoing probe involving alleged child sexual abuse material.
Officials Highlight Importance of Coordinated Efforts
Katherine Fernandez Rundle emphasized that the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of proactive law enforcement strategies in combating human trafficking.
She described the sting as a critical step in addressing what she called a form of “modern-day slavery,” stressing the importance of collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies.
Meanwhile, Manuel Morales praised officers involved in the operation and urged the public to remain vigilant.
“Human trafficking has no place in our community,” Morales said, encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity to authorities.
Public Urged to Report Human Trafficking
Officials are asking anyone with information about potential human trafficking cases to contact the State Attorney’s Office hotline, which operates 24/7.
Law enforcement agencies say operations like this are part of a broader effort to identify and dismantle networks that exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly minors.