Edik Asadorian, Interstate Transportation for Prostitution, Florida 2016

Local Man Found Guilty of Interstate Transportation for Prostitution

Jacksonville, Florida – In a shocking turn of events, Edik Asadorian (43, Queens, NY) has been found guilty of interstate transportation for prostitution and interstate violation of a protective order against domestic violence. The verdict was handed down in a federal court in Jacksonville on [no date given].

Asadorian, an Iranian national, faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 29, 2016. This severe punishment is a direct result of Asadorian's heinous crimes, which put the lives of many at risk.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on November 13, 2014, Asadorian engaged in domestic violence against a woman in Queens. The evidence showed a disturbing pattern of abuse, with Asadorian punching and choking the woman, throwing her against a wall, and onto the floor of an apartment they shared. A New York court issued an order of protection directing Asadorian to stay away from the woman and to have no contact with her whatsoever.

Rather than complying with that order, Asadorian transported the woman to Florida, with the intent that she engage in prostitution. Less than 24 hours after arriving in Jacksonville, an ad for the woman was placed on the Internet site Backpage.com. Asadorian also obtained multiple hotel rooms in the Jacksonville area to be used for the illegal activities.

This case was investigated by the Orange Park Police Department, the New York City Police Department, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mac D. Heavener, III. The severity of Asadorian's crimes is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of human trafficking and domestic violence.

The guilty verdict in this case serves as a warning to those who would seek to exploit and harm others. Asadorian's actions were a brazen attempt to continue his abuse of the victim, and his punishment is a testament to the commitment of law enforcement to bringing perpetrators to justice.

The community is left shaken by the knowledge of Asadorian's crimes, but also reassured by the knowledge that justice will be served. Asadorian's sentencing hearing will take place on February 29, 2016, and it is expected that he will face the maximum penalty for his crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/new-york-man-found-guilty-interstate-transportation-prostitution-and-violation