116 Arrested, 5 Human Trafficking Victims Recovered In Hillsborough County Operation

TAMPA, FL — A Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office operation targeting human traffickers, child predators and others accused of preying on vulnerable people resulted in 116 arrests and the recovery of five human trafficking victims, authorities said in a news release.

The operation, dubbed “Operation Relentless Summer,” ran from June 8 through Aug. 5 and involved the HCSO Human Trafficking Section, Internet Predator Squad and Sexual Predator Unit.

Investigators used a variety of tactics during the nearly two-month operation, including residential search warrants, investigations involving dark web activity, undercover online chats, hotel and motel operations, investigations into people traveling to meet minors and checks of registered sex offenders, the sheriff’s office said.

Among those arrested was Frank Amiekumo, 35, who authorities accuse of trafficking women and girls across Texas, Louisiana and Florida for about four years.

Detectives identified five alleged victims in that case — three adult women and two juvenile girls. Investigators believe there could be additional victims who have not yet come forward, the agency said.

Amiekumo is being held at Orient Road Jail without bond.

“Human trafficking is a crime that thrives in the shadows, and operations like this one shine a light on it,” Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “This work is not merely a job, it’s a mission, a mission to protect and preserve the very fabric of our community. Every arrest made during Operation Relentless Summer represents a predator who is no longer a threat to the families of Hillsborough County.”

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier also credited HCSO and the Office of Statewide Prosecution with the arrests and recovery of the five victims.

“These human traffickers and child predators prey on the most vulnerable in our communities, exploiting women and children for their own gain,” Uthmeier said.

Selah Freedom and One More Child provided services to victims during the operation, according to HCSO.

The sheriff's office said its Human Trafficking Section has made 1,343 arrests since it was established in 2021.

The Internet Predator Unit, established in 2024, has made 368 arrests, while the Sexual Predator Unit, also established in 2024, has made 236 arrests, according to HCSO.

Anyone who believes they have information related to the cases or who believes they may have been victimized is asked to contact HCSO detectives at 813-247-8200.

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