Introduction
In a significant crackdown on human trafficking, Princeton police have arrested four individuals involved in a forced labor scheme in Collin County. The arrests followed the discovery of over a dozen young women living in deplorable conditions.
Discovery and Initial Investigation
The investigation began when a pest control company, called to a rental home in Princeton, noticed suspicious activity. The inspector found three to five young females sleeping on the floors of each room, prompting the company to contact the police. The house, which had minimal furniture but numerous electronics and folding tables, was later identified as the center of a human trafficking operation.
Arrests and Charges
Princeton police arrested four individuals in March, charging them with trafficking of persons. The suspects are Chandan Dasarathi, Tahoka Gunda, Santhosh Kalgary, and Anil Male. The police chief revealed that the investigation had been ongoing for several months in collaboration with federal investigators.
Scale of the Operation
Authorities estimate that over 100 people are involved in the operation, with more than half identified as victims. The scheme is said to extend beyond Princeton to other locations, including McKinney and Melissa.
Community Reaction
Residents of the Princeton neighborhood were shocked to learn about the trafficking operation occurring nearby. A family that recently moved into the home expressed their disturbance upon discovering the house’s dark past.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have seized laptops, cell phones, and other electronics during the investigation. Authorities continue to examine these devices to uncover further details about the operation. While the police have not disclosed the origins of the victims or the specifics of their forced labor, they are committed to pursuing all leads to prevent similar incidents in the future.
