Sixteen teenagers being sold as prostitutes--some reported missing by their families--were rescued by authorities in the lead-up to Super Bowl XLVIII in New Jersey

◼ Super Bowl prostitution sweep rescues 16 teens; 45 suspects arrested - LA Times

The arrests and recovery cap a two-week-long law pre-Super Bowl law enforcement effort as authorities face pressure from human rights groups to crack down on human trafficking.

“High-profile special events, which draw large crowds, have become lucrative opportunities for child prostitution criminal enterprises,” Ron Hosko, assistant director of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, said in a statement. “The FBI and our partners remain committed to stopping this cycle of victimization and putting those who try to profit from this type of criminal activity behind bars.”

Some of the recovered youths were from overseas. Overall, 70 people, including the 16 teens, received assistance from authorities, including referrals to healthcare and shelters.