In a sting operation targeting individuals soliciting sex from a minor, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement worker was among 16 men arrested, highlighting ongoing concerns about misconduct within federal agencies.

According to Newsweek, Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges announced that the three-day "Operation Creep" began on November 5, focusing on men attempting to purchase sex from a 17-year-old girl, leading to the arrest of 41-year-old Alexander Back, a civilian auditor with the Department of Homeland Security. Upon his arrest, Back reportedly told officers, "I'm ICE, boys," prompting Hodges to respond, "Well, unfortunately for him, we locked him up."

The operation involved collaboration with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and police from Eden Prairie, Richfield, and the Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport. Suspects ranged in age from 18 to 49, mostly from the Twin Cities area, and not all have been formally charged, with some cases expected to be referred to federal prosecutors.

Details of Operation Creep Sting

The sting targeted individuals responding to online solicitations posing as a 17-year-old girl available for sex. Police used advanced tactics, including drone footage, to monitor suspects arriving at a designated hotel meeting point.

One suspect was captured on drone video arriving with a bag containing cocaine, methamphetamine, and eight firearms. This discovery heightened the operation's intensity, revealing potential additional crimes beyond solicitation.

Another individual allegedly informed officers he planned to bring a gun and was tackled upon entry. Such incidents demonstrate the dangers faced by law enforcement during these high-stakes arrests.

Profiles of Arrested Suspects

Alexander Back, 41, from Robbinsdale, works as a civilian auditor for the Department of Homeland Security and faces charges related to the sting. His affiliation with ICE has drawn particular scrutiny amid broader agency oversight concerns.

Other arrested men include a Metro Transit bus driver, adding to the diversity of professions involved in the operation. This mix highlights how such offenses can span various societal roles, from public transportation to historical societies.

An employee of the Brown County Historical Society and a staff member of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency were also detained. Their involvement underscores the widespread nature of the issue, affecting individuals in educational and environmental fields.

Law Enforcement Actions and Statements

Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges emphasized the challenges posed by evolving technology in conducting sting operations. He urged lawmakers to implement restrictions on online platforms that facilitate such crimes, stating, "We need to make sure that we pass some laws that make it so these companies can't continue to have these people on their platforms."

Hodges noted that ICE took custody of a few suspects, though local police could not verify immigration status. This collaboration reflects inter-agency efforts but also points to limitations in local verification processes.

The operation's success relied on assistance from multiple departments, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Police released details to raise public awareness, aiming to deter future offenders through transparency.

Lessons to Learn

Trafficking stings like “Operation Creep” offer unsettling but important lessons for communities and individuals navigating the digital world:

1. Online safety is critical. The suspects were caught using websites and communication tools that are widely available to the general public. Parents, guardians, and internet users should practice and teach caution when using online platforms, especially those that include messaging strangers.

2. People in positions of trust can still pose a threat. The arrest of government employees underscores that workplace authority or professional titles do not guarantee that someone’s intentions are good. It's essential to remain vigilant and report inappropriate behavior regardless of someone's rank or role.

3. Community partnerships make a difference in safety. The success of this sting operation depended on collaboration between multiple local and state agencies. Citizens can support these efforts by staying informed and engaging with local law enforcement when something seems suspicious. Still, no prevention strategy is perfect—crimes can and unfortunately do happen to anyone, and those affected must never be blamed.

Why This Story Matters

This case underscores how systemic issues can allow dangerous individuals to work within trusted institutions. It also highlights the ongoing and evolving threat of online child exploitation. The community has a right to know who is being held accountable and what steps officials are taking to stop these crimes from recurring.

Conclusion

A three-day law enforcement operation in Minnesota, launched on Nov. 5, resulted in 16 arrests involving suspects accused of trying to solicit sex from a 17-year-old girl. Among those arrested was Alexander Back, a DHS civilian auditor, raising concern due to his ICE link. The suspects came from diverse professional backgrounds and age groups, with some carrying drugs and firearms. The investigation was a joint effort between state and local agencies across the Twin Cities. While not all suspects have been charged, authorities are looking into federal prosecution options.