A 17-day investigation into suspected labor trafficking at a Huntsville business led authorities to execute six search warrants and arrest three people, including one on a first-degree human trafficking charge.
The Huntsville Police Department said Operation Meteor Strike began Aug. 9 after its Special Task Force Rescuing and Investigating Kid Exploitation, or STRIKE, was contacted about a possible labor trafficking victim.
According to HPD, investigators developed evidence indicating the woman had been brought to Huntsville to work and was being compelled to continue working to repay a debt. Police said investigators also found evidence she had been threatened if she did not comply.
The circumstances had reportedly been ongoing for approximately two years.
“This investigation started because one person had the courage to speak up,” Huntsville Police Chief Kirk Giles said. “What followed was a collaborative effort involving our federal, state and local partners. We are proud of the work that has been done, and we will continue to follow the evidence and do our part to hold those responsible accountable.”
The investigation led authorities to serve six search warrants around 5:45 a.m. Thursday at three residences in the 600 block of Dawson Terrace, a residence in the 2000 block of Cameron Road, a location in Madison County and a business in the 700 block of U.S. Highway 72.
Police identified the three people arrested as Caiyun Chen, 51, of Huntsville, who is charged with first-degree human trafficking; Chao Bin Zhang, 64, of Huntsville, who is charged with conspiracy to commit a felony; and Baudilio Ordonez Gomez, 44, of Huntsville, who also faces a conspiracy to commit a felony charge.
All three were booked into the Madison County Jail.
The operation brought together HPD and several federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI Birmingham Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and Madison County Sheriff’s Office.
“The FBI will always stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners to crush violent crime and remove the worst of the worst,” FBI Birmingham Field Office Special Agent in Charge David R. Fitzgibbons said.
The Madison County District Attorney’s Office also assisted with the investigation, while Fortify Alabama provided resources and support to the victim.
HPD said Operation Meteor Strike remains active, with investigators continuing to process evidence, conduct interviews and pursue leads. Additional arrests or charges are possible.
The charges are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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