Buckeye Reporter

Two recent arrests in Ohio have highlighted the varied backgrounds of individuals involved in human trafficking. The Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, working with the Salem Police Department, arrested David Saunders and Patrick Geho for their alleged involvement in illegal activities related to human trafficking.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost emphasized the widespread issue of human trafficking across the state, stating, “Every day and in every area of our state, people from all walks of life are buying sex, and not from willing participants.” He further explained that such criminal behavior perpetuates the demand for human trafficking. "Without demand, traffickers don’t have clients and don’t need victims," Yost said.

On March 6, Canton resident David Saunders was arrested while posing as a woman selling sex online. Saunders has a history of criminal activity and is currently on probation for aggravated burglary and felonious assault. He faces charges including solicitation and possession of criminal tools.

The following day, Patrick Geho from Washington, Pennsylvania was apprehended after responding to an undercover ad. Geho identified himself as a public relations director for Washington County but was charged with engaging in prostitution.

Yost reiterated his warning against purchasing sex in Ohio: “I’ll say it again: Don’t buy sex in Ohio,” he stated. “If you do, you might end up being arrested by our task forces."

The Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force operates under Yost’s Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission (OOCIC) and includes multiple law enforcement agencies across the region. OOCIC oversees seven task forces covering 25 counties in Ohio.

To report suspected human trafficking within the state:

- Call (844) END-OHHT.

- Text “ENDOHHT” to 847411.

- Download the END OHHT app on Apple or Android devices.

- Submit information online at gov/ENDOHHT.