OSHKOSH — Oshkosh police conducted an undercover operation Friday to rescue a female victim from human trafficking and arrest a suspect with a lengthy criminal history.
An investigation by an Oshkosh Police Department detective revealed a female victim was being held against her will at a local hotel and forced into human trafficking activities, according to a news release.
An undercover officer met with the victim at the hotel. Shortly after; a man believed to be involved in trafficking the victim was seen leaving the room.
The man, who police say resisted arrest, was taken into custody by officers.
He was found in possession of a stolen firearm and a significant amount of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine.
The suspect, a 32-year-old man from Texas with no known ties to the Oshkosh community, has an extensive criminal history, police said.
He is suspected of trafficking the victim across multiple states over several months during which she lived in fear of the suspect.
A search of the hotel room uncovered a second firearm and additional drugs.
The victim is being reunited with her family and will receive support from local advocacy groups to help her recover.
The suspect faces multiple felony charges, including human trafficking, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession with intent to deliver controlled substances.
He is currently being held at the Winnebago County Jail.
Anyone with information regarding this incident or human trafficking is urged to contact their local police department or Crime Stoppers.
