A massive statewide human trafficking sting led by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office has resulted in 135 arrests, including one man from Ironton who attempted to buy sex from a minor. The operation, called “Operation Next Door,” highlights that human trafficking is not just an urban problem — it is happening in small towns and rural communities across Southern Ohio.
Attorney General Dave Yost said the operation was designed to remind the public that trafficking doesn’t just exist “in the shadows.”
“Too often, we are lulled into the false narrative that these crimes happen only in the shadows. This is simply not true – human trafficking occurs in plain sight and, unfortunately, may even be fueled by your co-workers or neighbors,” Yost said.
Southern Ohio Involvement
Locally, the Southern Ohio Organized and Major Crimes Task Force participated in the operation, bringing together the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office, Portsmouth Police Department, Pike County Sheriff’s Office, Pike County Prosecutor’s Office, New Boston Police Department, and the Scioto County Prosecutor’s Office.
Among the arrests:
- Brent McLain, 60, of Ironton, was charged with importuning after attempting to buy sex from a minor.
Local Leaders Respond
Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman said his office’s participation was about protecting the most vulnerable in the community:
“I am pleased to be part of and support Ohio’s statewide human trafficking operation, Operation Next Door. Human trafficking is a grave injustice that affects people even in our rural communities. No one should think they can exploit the vulnerable without consequence. I commend the dedication of the deputies, investigators, and partner agencies who worked tirelessly to bring this operation to fruition. Our priorities are protecting victims, prosecuting offenders, and ensuring this behavior is never tolerated in Ohio and Scioto County.”
Portsmouth Police Chief Debby Brewer echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the commitment of her officers:
“The men and women of the Portsmouth Police Department will do whatever it takes to end sex trafficking, and the help that we received from our local OOCIC task force makes that possible.”
Bigger Picture in Southern Ohio
The arrests come as Scioto County remains under scrutiny for its long history of trafficking allegations. Scioto County Daily News (SCDN) has extensively reported on the human trafficking probe tied to disgraced attorney and city councilman Mike Mearan, who was indicted in 2020 before his death the following year. Investigative records revealed dozens of alleged victims and possible co-conspirators who have never faced charges.
For SCDN publisher Mark Craycraft, the arrests in Operation Next Door underscore the need for continued accountability. The case against Mearan — and the revelations that followed — made clear that trafficking networks can flourish when powerful figures are not held to account.
Operation Next Door by the Numbers
- 135 arrests statewide, including 32 on felony charges.
- 103 “johns” arrested for attempting to purchase sex.
- 67 survivors identified and referred for services.
- Nine search warrants executed, including raids on massage parlors in northern Ohio.
- Over $62,000 seized for long-term investigations.
A Continuing Fight
Southern Ohio’s deep struggles with addiction and poverty have long made it a target for traffickers. While statewide stings like Operation Next Door send a strong message, local leaders and watchdogs say the true test will be whether investigations go beyond street-level arrests and reach those in positions of power.
As Sheriff Thoroughman made clear, Scioto County intends to remain on the front lines of that fight.
