Related Federal Cases
- Gabriel Mendez, Drug Trafficking, California 2023 · Florida
- Alan Daniel Wilson, Meth Trafficking, California 2013 · Iowa
- Desmond Trevain Manago, Sex Trafficking, Washington 2012 · Colorado
- Desmond Trevain Manago, Sex Trafficking of a Child, Washington 2014 · Colorado
- Jesse Owen Ray, Cocaine Trafficking, California 2013 · Ohio
Point Arena Couple Charged with Sex Trafficking
A shocking case of sex trafficking has come to light in Point Arena, California, as a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against Tion Makeise Foster, 21, and Monica Merlin Morales, 25, charging them with sex trafficking a minor and conspiracy to traffic a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert.
According to court documents, the defendants transported a 16-year-old female victim to various places in the Eastern District of California and the Bay Area in August 2016 so that she could engage in commercial sex acts for their financial benefit. They subsequently conspired to traffic her again in November and December.
This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith is prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Foster and Morales face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.
The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This disturbing case highlights the need for continued vigilance in addressing human trafficking. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Sex Crimes|Human Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
