TOLEDO, OH – Taurus Devault, 27, of Toledo, is headed to federal prison for more than 18 years after being sentenced for the horrific exploitation of a minor. The sentence, handed down by U.S. District Judge James Carr, reflects the gravity of Devault’s crimes: one count of sex trafficking of a minor and one count of conspiring to use interstate commerce – the internet and telephone networks – to facilitate a prostitution enterprise. This isn’t just about online activity; it’s about the destruction of a young life for profit.
The case, a joint effort between the FBI and multiple local law enforcement agencies, revealed a sickening scheme dating back to 2012. Court documents detail how Devault and his co-conspirator, Duane Hill, 26, also of Toledo, used the website backpage.com to advertise underage girls for commercial sex acts. Hill was previously sentenced to over 16 years in prison for his role in the operation, a testament to the relentless pursuit of these predators.
“These defendants made their profits using underage girls,” stated Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “We will continue to work with our partners to prosecute human trafficking cases in all their many forms.” The statement underscores the ongoing battle against this insidious crime and the commitment of federal authorities to bring perpetrators to justice.
The FBI’s commitment to protecting children was further emphasized by Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “Protecting our nation’s children is one of the highest priorities in the FBI,” Anthony said. “No one should be able to pick up a phone or go online to purchase a child. People who traffic children for their own financial gain deserve – and are getting – the highest possible sentences the court can hand down.” This case sends a clear message: exploiting children will be met with the full force of the law.
The investigation, spearheaded by the Northwest Ohio Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force, involved a broad coalition of agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Toledo Police Department, Perrysburg Township Police Department, Lima Police Department, Oregon Police Department, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The collaborative effort highlights the necessity of interagency cooperation in tackling complex crimes like human trafficking.
Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Hurley skillfully prosecuted the case, securing a 224-month sentence for Devault. While no sentence can fully repair the damage caused to the victim, it serves as a measure of accountability and a warning to others who would prey on the vulnerable. This conviction is a grim reminder of the darkness that exists and the tireless work required to combat it. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the ongoing fight against human trafficking.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Human Trafficking|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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