Operation Meteor Strike leads to 3 arrests, 6 search warrants

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The image shows an indoor press conference setting where an individual in a suit is speaking at a podium with a microphone. Behind the speaker, several uniformed individuals stand in a row, along with a dog on a leash held by another uniformed individual. A blue backdrop on the right displays multiple “Huntsville Police” logos, and various flags are positioned near the podium.

A 17-day investigation into suspected labor trafficking at a Huntsville business has resulted in three arrested and six search warrants, as the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) and its federal, state and local partners continue working to uncover the full scope of the case.

The investigation, known as Operation Meteor Strike, began Aug. 9 after HPD’s Special Task Force Rescuing and Investigating Kid Exploitation (STRIKE) was contacted regarding a possible victim of labor trafficking.

Investigators developed evidence indicating the victim had been brought to Huntsville to work and was being compelled to continue working to repay a debt. Investigators also developed evidence that she was threatened if she did not comply. The circumstances under investigation had reportedly been ongoing for approximately two years.

That investigative work led to six search warrants, which HPD and its partner agencies served on Thursday, Aug. 27 around 5:45 a.m. at locations connected to the investigation:

  • Three residences in the 600 block of Dawson Terrace
  • A residence in the 2000 block of Cameron Road
  • A location in Madison County
  • A business in the 700 block of U.S. Highway 72

Investigators secured arrest warrants for Caiyun Chen, 51, of Huntsville, on a charge of first‑degree human trafficking; for Chao Bin Zhang, 64, of Huntsville, on a charge of conspiracy to commit a felony; and for Baudilio Ordonez Gomez, 44, of Huntsville, also on a charge of conspiracy to commit a felony.

All three have been booked into the Madison County Jail.

“This investigation started because one person had the courage to speak up,” HPD Chief Kirk Giles said. “What followed was a collaborative effort involving our federal, state and local partners. We are proud of the work that has been done, and we will continue to follow the evidence and do our part to hold those responsible accountable.”

HPD was joined in the investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Birmingham Field Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Internal Revenue Service, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

“The FBI will always stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners to crush violent crime and remove the worst of the worst,” FBI Birmingham Field Office Special Agent in Charge David R. Fitzgibbons.

The Madison County District Attorney’s Office also assisted throughout the investigation and as the case moves forward. Fortify Alabama provided resources and support to the victim.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Investigators are continuing to process evidence, conduct interviews and follow leads. Additional arrests or charges are possible.

The charges are accusations, and all suspects are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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