BRANCH COUNTY, MI. — A coordinated law enforcement operation targeting human trafficking and related activity took place Tuesday, June 23, 2026, bringing together multiple agencies from across the region.
According to a press release issued by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Police, officers made contact with several individuals identified as potential trafficking victims during the operation.
These individuals were offered victim-centered support services through partner organizations. No other information was released.
The operation is part of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Police’s “Stand Against Trafficking” program, supported in part by a November, 2025 Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation grant.
The effort involved the Branch County Sheriff’s Office, Coldwater Police Department, Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Police, and Pokagon Band Tribal Police Department.
Victim support organizations, including S.A.F.E. Place and the Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence (BCCADSV), were also on site to provide immediate assistance.
Law enforcement officials also encountered people attempting to purchase commercial sexual services and took appropriate enforcement action.
Due to ongoing investigations and pending charging decisions by the Branch County Prosecutor’s Office, officials declined to release additional operational details.
The initiative focused not only on identifying and helping victims but also on addressing demand for commercial sexual exploitation.
Officials highlighted the importance of collaboration among law enforcement, service providers, local businesses, hotels, and community members in combating trafficking.
Human Trafficking Investigator Alexis Nickles issued the statement on behalf of the department.
Contact Don Reid, dReid@USATodayCo.Com
This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Multi-Agency human trafficking Operation conducted in Branch County
Reporting by Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter / Coldwater Daily Reporter
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter | USA TODAY Network
