MISSOULA – Last week, the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) conducted a human trafficking operation. Eight people were arrested for patronizing a prostitute and one person was also arrested for distributing dangerous drugs.

The operation was assisted by the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office as well as the Missoula Police Department targeting sex buyers in the Missoula area.

In the state of Montana, it is illegal to buy and sell sexual favors under MCA 45-5-601.

There were a total of nine incidents related to the patronage of a prostitute during the operation, with the offenders being arrested, issued warrants or charged.

We will provide an update once more information becomes available.