8 arrested in San Antonio human trafficking sting, 1 suspect still at large

Elizabeth Martinez, 31, of San Antonio, was arrested for compelling prostitution of a minor. Elizabeth Martinez, 31, of San Antonio, was arrested for compelling prostitution of a minor. Photo: Bexar County Sheriff's Office Photo: Bexar County Sheriff's Office Image 1 of / 12 Caption Close 8 arrested in San Antonio human trafficking sting, 1 suspect still at large 1 / 12 Back to Gallery

SAN ANTONIO — The Texas Department of Public Safety arrested eight suspects during a four-month-long investigation into human trafficking operations in the Alamo City, a news release said Wednesday.

The investigation started in January, when the DPS Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Special Agents started looking into human trafficking and prostitution in Bexar County. The agents halted several alleged criminals who were trafficking juveniles and other victims. The investigation led to the arrest of seven men and one woman.

RELATED: Central Texas police arrest 10 in prostitution, drug sting

A ninth person is wanted in connection to the crimes, 33-year-old Gabriel De La O, who is wanted for trafficking of a child and trafficking of a person. He is currently being sought by authorities.

“Law enforcement plays a critical role in community safety and protecting Texans from criminals who profit off exploiting others,” said DPS Regional Commander Freeman Martin. “I am very proud of our investigative division and their efforts to protect victims from human trafficking – which endangers children as well as adults.”

RELATED: Two San Antonio women arrested in prostitution sting at Boerne massage parlor, police say

Click through the slideshow to see a collection of those suspects arrested during the San Antonio operation.

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