Illinois State Police conducted an anti-human trafficking investigation that led to the apprehension of five individuals.
The operation was headquartered in Effingham and, as stated in a press release by the state police, its primary objective was to detect predators.
The procedure yielded the subsequent expenses:
Daniel A. Bennett, a 38-year-old resident of Bethany, Illinois, has been accused of committing the crimes of Indecent Solicitation of a Child, Traveling to Meet a Child, and Solicitation to Meet a Child. Justin P. Covey, a 32-year-old resident of Irvine, Kentucky, has been charged with Solicitation of a Sexual Act. Scott A. Grote, a 38-year-old resident of Centralia, has also been charged with Solicitation of a Sexual Act. David L. Hackett, a 71-year-old resident of Tuscola, has been charged with Solicitation of a Sexual Act. Lastly, Thad D. White, a 50-year-old resident of Cowden, has also been charged with Solicitation of a Sexual Act.
The Southern Illinois Drug Task Force, Central Illinois Enforcement Group, Effingham Police Department, Christian County Sheriff’s Department, and Homeland Security Investigations were all involved in the operation. The announcement states that the operation had assistance from the Effingham County States Attorney’s Office.