Operation BRIDGE: Providing Resources and Enforcing Laws in Western Co

Published on June 12, 2026

Operation BRIDGE: Providing Resources and Enforcing Laws in Western Columbus

FRANKLIN COUNTY, OH – In a multi-division collaboration, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with several county and local agencies, conducted Operation BRIDGE on June 4, 2026. The goal was to combat human trafficking and proactively fight illegal activities in West Columbus.

More importantly, Operation BRIDGE (Bridging Recovery Interdiction Data Gathering Enforcement), aimed to connect individuals directly with the resources and help they need.

FCSO deputies interacted with several women involved in prostitution, and offered first aid, personal hygiene products, mental health services, as well as gave them the opportunity to speak with local community support groups and treatment centers. In total, four women went directly to treatment after talking to one of the community partners.

“Operation Bridge is about more than making arrests. It’s about finding people who need help and getting them connected to the right resources,” said Sheriff Dallas Baldwin. “I’m thankful for all of the agencies who worked together to make this operation a success.”

Also at Operation BRIDGE were representatives from the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Franklin County Municipal Court, Franklin County Prosecutors Office, City of Columbus Prosecutors Office and Franklin County Public Defender’s Office. These groups focused on providing legal support and reducing barriers in the legal system.

“For someone seeking services – such as housing assistance, employment support, healthcare, education, benefits, or social services – an outstanding arrest warrant can create practical and legal obstacles," said Franklin County Prosecuting Attorney Shayla D. Favor. "Our team was proud to be a part of Operation Bridge to help these individuals get one step closer to turning their lives around and reducing the rate of recidivism.”

Stats from Operations BRIDGE:

24 women interacted with law enforcement and service care providers for treatment options
4 women entered treatment centers
3 non-drug-related felony arrests
16 non-drug-related misdemeanor felony arrests
4.5 grams of marijuana seized
4 grams of crack cocaine seized
2.1 grams of fentanyl seized
.1 gram of methamphetamine seized

Operation BRIDGE was made possible through the help of our community and county partners: