29 August 2023
GARDEN CITY, Kan. (KSNW) — A Finney County organization is seeking items to assist 29 people recently rescued from human trafficking in Finney County.
On Aug. 14, deputies discovered some of the victims after they responded to a tenant/landlord dispute. A series of search warrants at other locations led to the rescue of 29 people, 5 of them children.
Jose Carlos Castillo-Alegria and Jesus Beatriz Palomino have been arrested and charged in connection to the case. They make separate court appearances next month.
Under federal law, because they are victims of trafficking, they are entitled to a special T-visa, which will allow them to stay and work in the United States while they work towards permanent residency if they choose to stay. However, they are required to cooperate with the investigation and prosecution of the suspects.
Finney County Livewell Coalition is currently accepting donations of household items for the victims who are being housed locally. The items needed include:
Toilet bowl cleaner
All-purpose cleaner
Laundry detergent
Other household cleaners
Dish soap
Dish sponge
Paper towels
Paper plates
Plastic silverware and Napkins
Bedding, pillows, and blankets
Cereal
Powdered milk
Peanut Butter
Jelly
Crackers
Cans of soup
Cans of Chili
Canned vegetables
Canned fruit
Canned tuna or chicken
Cans of Spaghetti sauce
Boxes of spaghetti
Macaroni and Cheese
Boxes of mashed potatoes
1-2lb. Bags of rice
1-2lb. Bags of beans
Bottled water or Gatorade
Any surplus donations will be donated to local food pantries. Donations will be accepted at the coalition’s office at 310 E. Walnut, Suite 202, in Garden City. They will be accepted Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information, call 620-765-1180 or contact the coalition through their website.