Missing Hillsborough Teen Rescued, Traffickers Arrested in Major Bust

Lakeland, Florida, USA - In a troubling turn of events, a 15-year-old girl who had been reported missing was rescued from two suspected human traffickers in a coordinated operation by local law enforcement agencies. This operation involved the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), and the Lakeland Police Department. According to Fox 13 News, the teen was located as authorities monitored suspicious adult escort advertisements online, ultimately leading to her rescue on June 24, 2025.

The alleged trafficker, 22-year-old Terrance Whitfield Jr., was found to have an active warrant for a previous charge of driving with a suspended license. He faces serious charges including human trafficking for commercial sexual activity involving a victim under 18, along with unlawful use of a two-way communications device. Brittany Armstrong, 36, who has a criminal record, was also arrested in connection with this case. She reportedly assisted in posting the girl’s advertisements and was in possession of a firearm when taken into custody on June 27, 2025.

The Broader Context of Human Trafficking in Florida

This incident highlights a pervasive issue in Florida. A recent report from the University of South Florida (USF) indicates that the state has one of the highest rates of human trafficking nationwide. It was developed by the USF Trafficking in Persons Risk to Resilience Lab, a facility created under a 2023 law mandating better data sharing among state agencies. This groundbreaking report, which you can read more about at WLRN, emphasizes Florida’s susceptibility due to its extensive transportation infrastructure, booming tourism industry, and significant migrant population.

The 2024 State Report on Human Trafficking reveals staggering statistics: over 500,000 individuals were exploited in labor trafficking and around 200,000 in sex trafficking last year, with minors making up a remarkable 50% of sex trafficking cases, and 25% of labor trafficking instances. This report, commissioned by the state and compiled by USF’s Trafficking in Persons Lab, brings light to the darker aspects of human trafficking in the state and can be explored further at USF.

Calls for Awareness and Action

Local law enforcement and state officials are pressing for greater awareness and action against human trafficking. Sheriff Chad Chronister stressed the dedication to holding individuals accountable who exploit vulnerable minors. This commitment comes amidst increasing recognition of human trafficking as a significant issue in Florida, with agencies working together to bolster prevention and criminalization efforts.

Thanks to years of advocacy and recent legislative changes, the state now has rigorous human trafficking policies that impose stricter penalties than the national average. The ongoing reporting and funding for the USF Lab are crucial for addressing and mitigating this pressing issue, but without continued legislative support, there’s a risk that necessary data collection may halt next year.

As this case unfolds, those with information regarding human trafficking are encouraged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at (813) 247-8000. The fight against human trafficking in Florida is far from over, and it’s critical that residents remain informed and vigilant.