“While this case contains the elements of coercion and control that we see in all of our trafficking prosecutions, the allegations here are especially, disturbingly violent,” said District Attorney Bragg. “The swift and effective coordination between the NYPD’s 30th Precinct, the NYPD’s Human Trafficking Squad, and my office’s dedicated prosecutors and investigators led to the arrest of this alleged trafficker. This indictment speaks to the power of our collaboration, and I am thankful for their commitment to this work.”

“A hallmark of sex trafficking is coercion, which we allege was employed here through a despicable cycle of drugs and debts,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Again and again we see traffickers prey on vulnerabilities to turn a profit while maintaining control. Our Human Trafficking Unit is here to help with expert attorneys and investigators and robust victim services – please call us at 212-335-3400.”

“As alleged, these individuals targeted a 14-year-old who frequently ran away from home, abusing her and profiting off of her,” said District Attorney Bragg. “The child’s age is exceedingly common in human trafficking cases and illustrates why my office is fighting to eliminate the statute of limitations for sex trafficking. This young girl has been put through an unimaginably terrible ordeal, and it is no wonder why it might take survivors more than a very narrow five years to come forward.”

“These alleged acts are absolutely horrendous, and I cannot imagine the physical, emotional and mental trauma this survivor continues to experience. It took extraordinary strength and courage for her to come forward and our team of specially trained prosecutors, investigators and social workers will support her with every resource we have available,” said District Attorney Bragg. “My Office is here to fully assist anyone who has been the survivor of sexual abuse and trafficking, and I urge anyone who has experienced this type of violence and abuse to call us at 212-335-3400.”