⏱ 2 min read
Elias Abdul Shabazz, a 34-year-old former Riverside County resident, was found guilty of forcing and coercing a victim into commercial sex acts on Figueroa Street in Los Angeles. The crimes occurred when Shabazz led the victim to believe they were in a romantic relationship, but he soon turned violent, demanding the victim engage in commercial sex for his profit. Shabazz has been in federal custody since May 2025 and now faces a lengthy prison sentence. The guilty verdict was handed down after a five-day trial, highlighting the determination of law enforcement to hold sex traffickers accountable.
According to evidence presented at the trial, Shabazz used physical and sexual violence, as well as cruel psychological coercion, to control the victim. The victim’s bravery in sharing her story has been commended by law enforcement, who praise her courage in facing her trafficker in court. The case was prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office and investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles.
The guilty verdict has been welcomed by law enforcement, who see it as a significant step in the fight against sex trafficking. First Assistant US Attorney Bill Essayli described the case as one of the most tragic his office has prosecuted, and praised the victim’s courage in coming forward. The case highlights the need for continued efforts to combat sex trafficking and support victims of these crimes.
Shabazz’s conviction is the result of a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies, including HSI and the US Attorney’s Office. The case demonstrates the commitment of these agencies to pursuing justice for victims of sex trafficking and holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Sex Crimes
- Defendant: California
- Location: CA
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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