The one-day sting, carried out on December 5, targeted individuals seeking commercial sex and also worked to identify potential human trafficking victims. The operation was a joint effort between the H.E.A.L. Task Force, the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, the Ashland Police Division, and Safe Haven of Ashland.
“These are men you might encounter any day — a farmer, a forklift operator, an auto parts manager and an electrician,” said **Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost** in a press release. “Our task forces conduct these stings not only to reduce the demand for human trafficking, but also to raise awareness that this nefarious behavior happens all across the state.”
Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider praised the coordination between agencies, emphasizing that the men arrested were part of the demand side of trafficking — those fueling the exploitation.
“Buying sex is illegal in Ohio, and we will continue to work proactively to eradicate this crime,” Schneider said. “Victims of human trafficking endure pain and suffering, and we are committed to helping them, while bringing offenders to justice.”
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the following individuals were arrested and charged with engaging in prostitution in Ashland Municipal Court:
– Mark Gamble, 55, Dublin
– James Heffelfinger, 62, Butler
– Christopher Johnson, 33, Mansfield
– Carlos Osorio, 43, Bucyrus
– Steven Shilliday, 28, Ashland
– Scott Stolcals, 41, Nova
Investigators also identified one person believed to be a potential victim of human trafficking. That individual has been connected with social service providers for support and assistance.
The H.E.A.L. Task Force — representing Huron, Erie, Ashland, and Lorain counties — operates under the umbrella of the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission. Its member agencies include the Perkins Township Police Department, Sheffield Village Police, and other regional partners. The task force regularly conducts undercover operations across northern Ohio to disrupt trafficking networks and provide resources for victims.
Officials say stings like this one are vital to both curbing the criminal market for sexual exploitation and raising public awareness. By targeting buyers, investigators aim to reduce demand while rescuing potential victims trapped in cycles of abuse and coercion.
Community advocates praised the effort as another step toward dismantling trafficking activity across the region. **Safe Haven of Ashland**, one of the partnering organizations, provides crisis intervention, shelter, and rehabilitation services for survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence.
Authorities reminded the public that human trafficking can occur anywhere — in rural, suburban, and urban settings alike — and encouraged residents to remain vigilant.
Those who suspect trafficking or prostitution-related activity are urged to contact the state hotline:
– Call: (844) END-OHHT
– Text: “ENDOHHT” to 847411