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Edina Police Arrest Seven In Underage Human Trafficking Sting
EDINA, MN – July 25, 2025 – The Edina Police Department announced today the arrest of seven individuals in a coordinated sting operation targeting underage human trafficking. The operation, conducted on Monday, July 21, in Edina, was part of an ongoing effort to combat trafficking and exploitation along the Interstate 494 corridor.
The arrested men, ranging in age from 25 to 48, believed they were arranging to pay for sex with an underage girl. No actual juveniles were involved in the operation; instead, undercover officers posed as the minor. The suspects reside in various communities throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
This latest success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the "494 Corridor Group," a multi-agency task force dedicated to addressing human trafficking. The Edina Police Department received support from several partner agencies, including the Bloomington, Eden Prairie, and St. Louis Park police departments, as well as the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office and the Hennepin County Attorney's Office. Other core members of the task force include the Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Plymouth, and Richfield police departments.
"Human trafficking, especially involving minors, is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our society," stated an Edina Police Department spokesperson. "These operations are crucial in disrupting these illicit networks and sending a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated in our communities."
Broader Efforts in the Twin Cities
This sting operation in Edina follows a similar successful initiative in Eden Prairie just last month. On Monday, June 23, Eden Prairie Police, also with support from the 494 Corridor Group, arrested 12 men for attempted exploitation of a minor. Since 2016, Eden Prairie detectives have participated in 38 such sting operations across the metro, leading to 401 arrests for trafficking-related offenses and allowing investigators to connect with 117 victims, offering them access to vital services like safe housing and treatment programs.
The Reality of Human Trafficking in Minnesota
Minnesota, particularly the Twin Cities, has been identified as a significant hub for child sex trafficking. Studies have revealed thousands of online advertisements for sex in the Twin Cities, highlighting the pervasive nature of this crime. Victims often come from vulnerable backgrounds, with homelessness being a significant contributing factor to sexual exploitation among teens.
Minnesota's "Safe Harbor Law," enacted in 2011, is designed to treat sexually exploited youth as victims in need of services, rather than criminals. This critical legislation aims to encourage victims to come forward and testify against perpetrators without fear of criminal repercussions. Since its implementation, law enforcement agencies in Minnesota have doubled the number of sex trafficking convictions.
Support for Victims
For individuals who are or have been victims of human trafficking, numerous resources are available:
- In immediate danger: Call 911.
- National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888 or text "HELP" to 233733.
- Minnesota Day One Crisis Line: Call 1-866-223-1111 or text 612-399-9995. This statewide program provides immediate access to safety and services.
- No Wrong Door (Hennepin County): A promise to young people experiencing exploitation that no matter where they enter the system, they can get help, offering access to healthcare, counseling, emergency shelter, and case management. Call 612-348-3552 or file a report online.
- The Link: A youth-centered agency providing specialized shelter and housing for youth who have been trafficked or exploited.
- International Institute of Minnesota: Assists foreign-born youth and adult survivors with housing, healthcare, job training, English classes, and T Visa support.
Authorities emphasize that ongoing collaboration among law enforcement agencies and community organizations is vital in the fight against human trafficking and in providing comprehensive support to survivors.
