Joplin Police Commits Sexual Exploitation

August 19 — About 25 Joplin police officers, along with officers from other agencies, conducted a survivor-oriented outreach Friday and Saturday morning to reach sexually exploited women and connect them with services that could help.

During the undercover operation, undercover officers contacted four women and agreed to buy sexual favors. A meeting place was arranged. The women were then contacted, detained, and questioned by detectives.

Three women, between the ages of 25 and 40, were cited for offering sexual favors and later released. Another woman was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and was arrested on two outstanding Joplin warrants for theft. She has since been released, said Capt. Will Davis, a Joplin police spokesman.

Due to the nature of the operation, identities are not being released.

Law enforcement was assisted by the Regional Coalition for Intervention Against Sexual Exploitation and Life Choices. Women received medical services, resources, and referrals for ongoing support from organizations.

Other law enforcement agencies involved included the Springfield Police Department, the Southwest Missouri Cyber ​​​​​​Crimes Task Force and federal authorities, Joplin police said.

Police are asking anyone who knows of someone being sexually exploited to report it to police at 417-623-3131 or contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.