GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — Nicko Ray Rush II, 26, of Lansing, has admitted to a monstrous crime: sex trafficking a minor. On January 24, 2017, Rush stood before the court and pleaded guilty to the heinous act of forcing two teenage girls, ages 15 and 16, into a life of sexual exploitation.
Rush is accused of taking the teens from Lansing to Detroit, where they were coerced into ‘walking the streets.’ He admitted to profiting from their commercial sex acts, providing them with drugs and cigarettes, and instructing them on how to attract customers. Additionally, he admitted to advertising for one of the girls online and subjected both her and an adult victim to violence and threats.
The consequences for Rush are severe. He faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 25 years in federal prison. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 5, 2017. Since his arrest on December 8, 2016, Rush has been held in custody, and he will remain detained pending the final decision.
Rush’s conviction marks the tenth federal sex trafficking case in West Michigan, a testament to the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tessa K. Hessmiller has been pivotal in these prosecutions, leading the charge against sex traffickers.
‘Sex trafficking isn’t something that happens elsewhere,’ said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge. ‘These are West Michigan defendants targeting West Michigan victims. We rely on our community and law enforcement to intervene in suspicious situations.’ Lansing Police Chief Mike Yankowski echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative effort between local and federal agencies in bringing Rush to justice.
Community members looking to combat sex trafficking can learn more by contacting their local human trafficking task force. This case serves as a stark reminder of the fight against human trafficking and the ongoing efforts to protect the vulnerable.
Related Federal Cases
- Flushing Trio Indicted in Interstate Sex Trafficking Ring · Pennsylvania
- Richardo Urbina Convicted of Sex Trafficking, Cocaine Distribution · Michigan
- Kent County Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking Child · Michigan
- 650 Register for Wis. Anti-Human Trafficking Confab · Wisconsin
- Amber Ginter Faces Human Trafficking Charges · Michigan
Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Sex Crimes|Human Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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