Two men arrested in southern Colorado human trafficking operation

EADS, Colo. -- Two men have been arrested on suspicion of human trafficking, sexual exploitation of children and prostitution, according to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

The multi-agency effort -- conducted by CBI, Homeland Security and the Kiowa County Sheriff's Office -- worked to identify the individuals suspected of attempting to engage in "illegal activities involving children," says CBI.

The two suspects were identified as 27-year-old Luis Hernandez of Fountain and 38-year-old Joshua Olmstead of Colorado Springs.

On Friday, Dec. 6, both suspects were taken into custody by undercover investigators, according to a report Sunday.

Hernandez fled the scene when contacted by investigators, leading law enforcement on a pursuit that ended on Colorado State Highway 287. No one was injured in the pursuit, but a Kiowa County Sheriff's Office vehicle was damaged by the suspect's car.

Hernandez allegedly wanted to participate in human trafficking activities involving a minor, according to CBI. He faces charges of human trafficking -- sexual servitude, felony eluding and reckless driving.

Also on Friday evening, Olmstead was identified by undercover agents after allegedly expressing interest in engaging in sexual contact with a minor. Olmstead was taken into custody without incident.

He is being held without bond on a charge of soliciting for child prostitution.