Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister announced the results of “Operation Relentless Summer,” a multi-week law enforcement initiative targeting human trafficking and child predators. The joint effort, which ran from June 8 to August 5, 2026, combined resources from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Human Trafficking Section, Internet Predator Squad, and Sexual Predator Unit.
Arrests and Rescues
Over the two-month period, detectives made 116 arrests and recovered five victims of human trafficking. Among those taken into custody was Frank Amiekumo, 35, who authorities allege trafficked three adult women and two juvenile girls across Texas, Louisiana, and Florida over a four-year period.
“Human trafficking is a crime that thrives in the shadows, and operations like this one shine a light on it,” Chronister said during the press briefing. “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.”
Support and Prosecution
State officials emphasized the role of joint prosecution in handling the cases. Victim advocacy organizations Selah Freedom and One More Child assisted law enforcement by providing support services to recovered victims throughout the initiative.
According to department figures, HCSO’s Human Trafficking Section has recorded 1,343 arrests since its creation in 2021. The Internet Predator Unit and Sexual Predator Unit, both established in 2024, have recorded 368 and 236 arrests respectively.
Authorities ask anyone with relevant information or potential victims to contact detectives at (813) 247-8200.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
