LANCASTER, N.Y. — The Erie County Sheriff's Office on Friday said it made an arrest connected to human trafficking.
The Lancaster Police Department on Thursday said it identified a teen who was potentially being sex trafficked in the town. In an undercover operation, officers found the 16-year-old girl in a motel and safely turned her over to her family.
Officers also arrested 21-year-old Andrell Montgomery of Buffalo for sex trafficking of a child. He was arraigned before the Lancaster Town Justice, then moved to the Erie County Holding Center. He is being held on $10,000 cash bail.
“It’s extremely important to encourage cooperation between agencies and community partners to combat and bring awareness to the victimization and tragic consequences of human trafficking,” Erie County Sheriff John Garcia said Friday in a statement, announcing the arrest.
“If you suspect someone is being coerced into sex or labor acts, please act by calling the local authorities or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Together, we can make a positive impact on our community.”
Added Lancaster Police Chief William Gummo: "The result of this investigation is indicative of the great teamwork between the Lancaster Police Department, the Erie County Sheriff's Office, and all members of the Human Trafficking Task Force. This task force is a valuable asset to law enforcement across Western New York."