Homeland Security Investigations Dallas led a multi-agency operation that targeted suspected human trafficking and unlawful employment at a Dallas-area strip club.
Agents executed a criminal search warrant at Chicas Bonitas Cabaret in Dallas. The enforcement action resulted in 41 illegal aliens taken into custody by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas for administrative immigration violations.
Officials said 29 individuals were suspected of illegally working at the club. Agents also seized approximately $30,000 in cash and business records during the raid.
“HSI Dallas is committed to eradicating the vile scourge of sex trafficking from our local communities,” said HSI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “Working in conjunction with our federal and local partners and leveraging HSI’s unique investigative authorities, we were able to disrupt the suspected trafficking operation at this cabaret and are working to identify potential victims.”
ICE reported that at least five of those arrested have prior criminal convictions after entering the United States illegally.
Juan Carlos Salas Medina, 30, a Mexican national, has illegally entered the country 10 times. He has convictions for aggravated assault of a family member, possession of a controlled substance, and driving under the influence.
Authorities identified Julios Cesar Martinez, 47, also from Mexico, as having convictions for assault causing bodily injury and DUI. Victor Manuel Manzano-Ramirez, 47, has entered the U.S. illegally twice and has a DUI conviction.
Two others, Gustavo Rojas-Garda, 44, and Genaro Diaz-Perez, 44, also from Mexico, have convictions for DUI and prostitution, respectively.
The operation received support from the Dallas Police Department, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigative Division.
ICE stated that processing of those arrested continues as the investigation remains ongoing.