by Cindy Gonzalez at Nebraska Examiner
A multi-year investigation centered on multiple motels, “brow and lash” salons and alleged human trafficking in and around Nebraska’s largest city has led to charges against five people in the hotel business.
The five, who own, operate and manage the involved hotels, are accused of crimes ranging from alleged sex and labor trafficking, fraudulent use of visas, money laundering and concealing undocumented immigrants, law enforcement officials announced Tuesday.
Also seized as part of the search warrants was $565,000 in cash and jewelry. A representative of U.S. Homeland Security said workers in the country without proper documentation also were detained, though he declined to disclose how many.
Eugene Kowel, special agent in charge of the Omaha FBI, said child victims as young as 12 years old were involved in a case he described as “absolutely horrific.” A statement said officers “rescued” 10 minors and 17 adults from the alleged labor trafficking conspiracy.
“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery,” Kowel said. “This investigation revealed victims right here in the heartland forced into sexual activity, living and working in dangerous and filthy conditions and extorted to work in grueling jobs with little to no pay.”
Kowel said investigators became aware of activity about four years ago, assisted by calls and concerns from the public.
He said the case involved “sex for rent,” drugs and more. On one occasion,…
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