A joint operation involving various law enforcement agencies was carried out during this year’s Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to combat sex trafficking. As a result, five individuals have been arrested.
The operation, which lasted from August 4 to August 10, involved agencies such as the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, US Homeland Security, and local police departments.
The arrested individuals include Burton Chief, Jr. for attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, and James Dreamer, James Peter Fast Horse, Jacob Wilson, and Vincent Barrios for attempting to entice minors using the internet.
If convicted, the penalties range from 10 years to life in federal prison.
The operation is part of Project Safe Childhood and aims to address child exploitation.