
Human Trafficking in South Carolina
SLED Arrests Woman in Sex Trafficking Investigation
HARDYVILLE, S.C. (CC News Network) — A North Charleston woman has been arrested in connection with a sex trafficking operation in Jasper County, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The arrest follows an extensive investigation into suspected commercial sex activities in the area of Whyte Hardee Boulevard in Hardeeville.
Detectives identified several individuals as participants in illicit activities after receiving tips about the suspected operation at a local business near 19289 Whyte Hardee Boulevard. The investigation led authorities to Glendys Chirinos Polanco, 45, who is accused of coordinating and conspiring to subject victims to sex trafficking.
Arrest and Extradition
On Wednesday, SLED agents apprehended Polanco in North Charleston. She was transported to Jasper County, where she faces charges related to sex trafficking. Authorities have not released further details about her alleged role in the operation, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
“This case underscores our commitment to identifying and bringing to justice individuals who exploit vulnerable people through trafficking,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “We will continue to work tirelessly with our local partners to combat human trafficking in South Carolina.”
Community and Victim Support
Local organizations, including victim advocacy groups, have expressed concern over the prevalence of human trafficking in South Carolina. The state’s Interstate 95 corridor has been identified as a significant route for trafficking activities, given its proximity to major cities and ease of transportation.
“Human trafficking often hides in plain sight, and it’s critical that community members remain vigilant,” said Sandra Alvarez, director of the Lowcountry Anti-Trafficking Initiative. “Victims often feel powerless to come forward, and we’re here to ensure they receive the support and resources they need.”
Authorities urge residents to report suspicious activities to the Hardeeville Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division at (843) 555-1234 or through the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.

Broader Implications
South Carolina has seen a rise in human trafficking cases in recent years. The 2024 South Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force report revealed that over 400 cases were investigated statewide, with many involving minors. Law enforcement officials attribute this increase to greater public awareness and improved interagency cooperation.
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Chair of the South Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force, released the 2024 Annual Report at the State House this week. Task Force leadership joined him for the release as well as local, state, and federal law enforcement. The report shares data that details the extent of human trafficking in South Carolina.
In 2024, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigated 285 tips that included nearly 400 potential victims. A majority of the tips investigated involved minor victims. SLED’s data also showed that human trafficking investigations were in 40 counties, with only six not reporting a case. The counties with the most investigations in 2024 include Greenville (32), Richland and Charleston (31 each), Horry (22), Lexington (21), Berkeley (18), and Spartanburg (16).
The National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 64 trafficking incidents and a total of 111 likely victims. The top five counties for reported incidents include Greenville, Horry, Richland, Spartanburg, and Charleston. The Hotline noted that the number one location for labor trafficking is in small businesses while the top location for sex trafficking is hotels and motels.
“I am grateful for the collective contributions of many in South Carolina’s anti-human trafficking efforts,” said Attorney General Wilson. “Our state continues to be a model of how best to address this heinous crime.”
In 2024, the General Assembly appropriated $6.5 million for the development of residential programming specifically for minor victims. While the Task Force continues its work to prevent human trafficking, it will launch a grant program in 2025 to develop a minimum of three programs for girls and one program for boys. The program for boys will be the first of its kind in South Carolina.
“The data tells us that traffickers are predominately targeting young people in South Carolina,” Kathryn Moorehead, Director of the Task Force, said. “Soon, we will begin the first phase of ensuring that children and youth who have been victimized get the care that they need.”
Joining Attorney General Alan Wilson was the First Lady of South Carolina, Peggy McMaster, SLED Chief Mark Keel, State Task Force Subcommittee Chairs, regional task force chairs, nonprofit leaders, and other anti-human trafficking advocates.
To access the annual report, please visit the State Task Force website at humantrafficking.scag.gov. To report an incident or seek victim services, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. The Hotline is confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Next Steps
Polanco’s arrest marks a significant development in the case, but investigators say they are still working to uncover the full extent of the operation. They are examining whether other individuals or businesses were involved and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on dismantling trafficking networks and providing assistance to victims. Organizations like the Jasper County Victim’s Assistance Program are ready to offer counseling, legal guidance, and other forms of support.
For now, Polanco is being held in the Jasper County Detention Center as she awaits a bond hearing. Her case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenge of human trafficking and the critical need for community involvement in combating it.
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