Attorney General Ashley Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution has charged a Florida couple, Marquett James and Alyson Marquett, with human trafficking, RICO, sexual battery, money laundering, and other serious counts for operating a massive trafficking ring. According to a Homeland Security investigation, the couple recruited and forced victims to engage in commercial sex work in various locations in Florida and across the country.
Attorney General Ashley Moody expressed, “Through coercion and violence, a Florida couple operated a massive human trafficking ring that victimized more than 30 women. The couple branded these women with tattoos, took control of their finances, and forced them to engage in hundreds of sex acts. Working with law enforcement we shut down this human trafficking ring and rescued victims.”
The HSI investigation revealed that the couple used violence against women who attempted to leave the operation and even branded victims with tattoos, including James' name. Authorities estimate that more than 32 victims are involved in this trafficking ring.
James and Marquett are each facing charges including human trafficking, conspiracy to commit human trafficking, RICO and conspiracy to commit RICO, sexual battery, and money laundering. They are accused of operating the trafficking ring together, with James as the main trafficker and Marquett assisting in various aspects of the operation.
The investigation found that the couple recruited victims from nightclubs, advertised their services online, scheduled dates with other men, and took the proceeds from these encounters. Additionally, James opened multiple corporations to conceal the illicit activity when arranging advertising or travel for the victims.
Attorney General Moody's Office of Statewide Prosecution will be handling the case, ensuring that justice is served for the victims of this heinous human trafficking ring.