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California Man Sentenced for Human Trafficking and Methamphetamine
FARGO, ND – In a shocking turn of events, 39-year-old Keith Alexander Graves of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced to serve 33 years and nine months in prison for his involvement in a human trafficking and methamphetamine ring in the Bakken.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Graves was found guilty of five counts of Sex Trafficking by Force or Coercion and one count each of Distribution and Possession of Methamphetamine. The crimes, which occurred on or about July 29, 2014, involved several victims who were forced into prostitution and ingested methamphetamine under Graves’ control.
During the eight-day jury trial, several victim witnesses testified about the abuse they suffered at the hands of Graves, including sexual assault and rape. The victims also described being forced to ingest methamphetamine and being threatened with violence if they did not comply.
The investigation into Graves’ crimes was a collaborative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, North Dakota BCI, and the Williston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandi Russell and Gary Delorme prosecuted the case.
In addition to the prison sentence, Judge Daniel L. Hovland ordered Graves to be placed on lifetime supervised release and to pay a $625 special assessment to the Crime Victims’ Fund.
The sentencing of Graves is a significant victory for the victims of human trafficking and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.
Graves’ crimes are a stark reminder of the devastating impact of human trafficking and the importance of continued efforts to prevent and prosecute these crimes.
Key Facts
- State: North Dakota
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Human Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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