HSI Kansas City leads multiagency operation to combat human trafficking leading up to World Cup games

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City, in partnership with the FBI Kansas City, the Clay County Sheriff's Office and the North Kansas City Police Department, arrested several child predators during a targeted human trafficking operation leading up to the World Cup. The operation focused on identifying and apprehending sexual predators seeking to exploit minors, as well as disrupting human trafficking networks operating in the region.

"Strong partnerships are the foundation of our success in combating human trafficking. Leading up to the World Cup, our joint efforts with the FBI, Clay County Sheriff's Office, and North Kansas City Police Department have been vital in protecting our community and holding offenders accountable," said HSI Kansas City acting Special Agent in Charge Rick Sabatini. "Together, we are sending a clear message that exploitation will not be tolerated."

Through coordinated undercover efforts, law enforcement officers identified and arrested multiple individuals attempting to engage in illegal sexual acts with children.

Jason Grouix, 50, of Pensacola, Florida, was charged by Clay County, Missouri, prosecutors with attempted enticement of a child and attempted possession of child pornography.

Curtis Ray Gibson, 47, of Lenexa, Kansas, was charged in federal court with attempted sex trafficking of a child.

Any charges are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting any charges must be presented to a trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Electronic devices were seized for further forensic examination, and the cases have been submitted for prosecutorial review. The Clay County Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the Western District of Missouri Assistant U.S. Attorney's Office will evaluate applicable charges and determine appropriate prosecutorial action.

This operation underscores the commitment of HSI and its partners to protect vulnerable populations and ensure public safety as Kansas City prepares for a major international event. The collaboration between federal, state and local agencies was instrumental in achieving these results.

HSI Kansas City remains dedicated to ongoing efforts to identify and disrupt human trafficking networks and support victims.