A coordinated human trafficking sting led by Eden Prairie Police Monday, June 23, resulted in the arrests of 12 men who believed they were arranging to pay for sex with an underage female.

The operation took place in Eden Prairie and involved support from the 494 Corridor Group — a multi-agency task force focused on addressing trafficking and exploitation along the I-494 corridor — whose core members include the Bloomington, Edina, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Plymouth and Richfield police departments.

The individuals arrested range in age from 24 to 46 and reside in communities throughout the Twin Cities metro area.

This latest operation is part of the EPPD’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking. Since 2016, Eden Prairie detectives have taken part in 38 sting operations across the metro, leading to 401 arrests for trafficking-related offenses. These operations have also allowed investigators to connect with 117 victims and offer access to vital services, including safe housing, treatment programs, and job and life skills training.

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office also assisted in the operation.