Massive Florida-based human trafficking ring busted: AG

FLORIDA — Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution (OSP) has charged a Florida couple with a massive human trafficking ring that reportedly involved more than 30 victims.

According to a Homeland Security investigation (HIS), Marquett James and Alyson Marquett recruited and forced victims to engage in commercial sex work in various locations in Florida and across the country. They are charged with human trafficking, RICO, sexual battery, money laundering, and other counts for operating a massive trafficking ring, Ms Moody’s office said.

The HSI investigation reportedly uncovered that Mr James and Ms Marquett used violence against women who attempted to leave the operation. The investigation is also said to have uncovered victims branded with tattoos, including James’ name.

Authorities believe more than 32 victims are involved in this ring.

“Through coercion and violence, a Florida couple operated a massive human trafficking ring that victimized more than 30 women,” said Ms Moody.

“The couple branded these women with tattoos, took control of their finances, and forced them to engage in hundreds of sex acts. Working with law enforcement, we shut down this human trafficking ring and rescued victims.”

According to the HSI investigation, James and Marquett worked together to operate a trafficking ring, in which Mr James served as the main trafficker, and Ms Marquett assisted in several aspects of the operation.

On multiple occasions, both James and Marquette reportedly used similar threats of abuse and intimidation to force victims into sex work. The investigation allegedly revealed that Mr James recruited victims working at nightclubs.

The defendants allegedly advertised the women’s services online and scheduled the victims’ dates with other men. Reportedly, after the dates, the defendants took the proceeds.

According to the investigation, one victim did not have a personal bank account, so James took all the funds for the illicit services.

The investigation also reportedly uncovered that Mr James opened multiple corporations to attempt to hide the illicit activity when arranging advertising or travel for the victims.

James and Marquett are each charged with human trafficking, conspiracy to commit human trafficking, RICO and conspiracy to commit RICO, sexual battery, and money laundering, among other felony charges.

Moody’s OSP will handle the case.