HOUSTON – Multiple law enforcement agencies were seen raiding a sports bar in east Harris County Thursday night after allegations of human trafficking and prostitution.
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It happened around 11 p.m. when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, the FBI, Homeland Security, and the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission (TABC) were seen at Frida’s Sports Bar on South McCarty near Clinton Drive by Buffalo Bayou.
A spokesperson for the TABC, which is leading the investigation, confirmed to KPRC 2 that officers were investigating allegations of human trafficking and prostitution.
Officials say the raid was a direct result of a tragic wrong-way crash on February 1st and tips about human trafficking and prostitution at the bar. The crash, which occurred on the 610 and Ship Channel Bridge, claimed the lives of a driver and their passenger, while the woman in the car they collided with was charged with DWI.
“I turned over all the surveillance video from the day of the crash to investigators,” said the owner of Frida’s. “I don’t recall anyone being overserved. As for the prostitution, we’ve decided to implement a new policy that will require everyone inside to have purchased food or drinks if they want to sit inside.”
We’re also told that 25 potential victims were also interviewed during the operation. Though no arrests were made, several individuals were taken into custody and transported to an ICE facility in Conroe for further processing.
Meanwhile, TABC investigators are now looking into potential administrative violations at Frida’s. The bar’s owner, however, remains confident that her establishment is up to date on all permits and has fully complied with all regulations. “I’m sure we’ll find there’s no violation at all,” she asserted.
As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers, with authorities focusing on the safety of those impacted. For now, Frida’s remains open, and the owner says operations will continue as normal.
