(News/Talk 1480 WHBC) – Authorities made several arrests during a human trafficking and prostitution sting in the Belden Village area.

The operation on May 29th was conducted by the Jackson Township Police Department with assistance from Canton Police, the Canton F.B.I., North Canton Police, Wooster Police, and the Massillon Prosecutor’s Office.

Police say Timothy M. Birch, 24, of Newcomerstown, was arrested and charged with unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a 4th degree felony.

He believed he was talking online with a 13-year-old girl when it was actually an undercover agent with the Canton Police Department, according to police.

Police say Birch believed he was meeting the girl to have sex.

Police say the following individuals were arrested for soliciting for sexual activity and possessing criminal tools.

Cherie Stevens, 39 years old, from Masedonia, OH
Stacy Blosser, 43 years old, from Canton, OH
Natalie Sweeney, 34 years old, from Canton, OH
Rebecca Young, 29 years old, from Akron, OH
Kendra Payne, 25 years old, from Akron, OH
Laura Johnson-Dowdle, 44 years old, from Massillon, OH