FBI frees dozens of children "sex slaves"

In all, the initiative has freed 576 child victims from forced prostitution, the FBI said.

Operation frees dozens of child prostitutesStory Highlights
"Operation Cross Country II" involved 29 cities, resulted in the arrest of 73 pimps

More than 500 adult prostitutes were also arrested

FBI: Sex trafficking of children remains one of the most violent crimes in this country

Child advocate likens teen prostitution to "21st century slavery"

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Dozens of juveniles have been freed from forced prostitution by a nationwide operation that resulted in the arrests of hundreds of other people, the FBI announced Monday.

In the three-day operation, which began Thursday night, the FBI, along with local and state law enforcement agencies, took the 46 girls and one boy -- all of them U.S. citizens ages 13 to 17 -- into protective custody.

"Operation Cross Country II" involved efforts in 29 cities and resulted in the arrest of 73 pimps and 518 adult prostitutes, the FBI said.

Those arrested could face federal or state charges, depending on their alleged activities.

FBI Deputy Director John Pistole said some of the alleged sex traffickers were working in networks of six to 10 pimps.

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