Several agencies work as part of a nationwide human trafficking interdiction operation

The full release below is from the Branson Police Department:
On 5/29/2025, the Branson Police Department participated in a nationwide human trafficking interdiction operation sponsored by Our Rescue, working alongside the Taney County Sheriffs Office, Stone County Sheriff's Office, COMET, and the RISE Coalition. This coordinated initiative involved 158 agencies across 19 states, with our operation being the only one in Missouri.

Locally, our team attempted to contact 58 females that were identified as potential victims of human trafficking. Through persistent outreach and support, conversations were established with 18 individuals, leading to direct contact with three of the females. Each of these individuals were offered compassionate care and access to critical resources, including food, medical assistance, lodging, and transportation thanks to dedicated advocates and medical professionals coordinated through RISE Coalition and Our Rescue’s survivor support services.

This operation also led to the arrest of Bernaud Armstead, who was transported to Taney County Jail and booked on a charge of Trafficking for the Purpose of Sexual Exploitation.

While none of the individuals contacted or arrested had ties to Branson, this operation reflects our strong regional partnerships and unwavering commitment to keeping human trafficking out of our community and surrounding areas. We will continue to partner closely with local, state, and national organizations to protect the vulnerable and uphold the safety of our region.