Attorney General Michelle Henry, in collaboration with the Pennsylvania State Police, has announced charges against 22 individuals involved in a Philadelphia-based human trafficking organization. The alleged leader of the ring, Terrance L. Jones, reportedly operated under the guise of "Julia" to recruit commercial sex workers over several years.
Jones, aged 52, faces multiple charges including corrupt organizations and trafficking in individuals. He was arrested on October 18 and arraigned with bail set at $2 million. Thomas Reilly, one of Jones' drivers, is charged with similar offenses as well as rape and other sexual assault charges. His bail was set at $1 million.
The investigation leading to these charges was conducted by the Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, and the 50th Statewide Investigating Grand Jury. It covered activities from 2012 to 2023.
"For more than a decade, Terrance Jones allegedly tricked vulnerable young women into his web of control and abuse," said Attorney General Henry. She emphasized that these arrests are significant steps towards accountability for those involved.
Colonel Christopher Paris of the Pennsylvania State Police reiterated their commitment to community safety through these arrests. "The Pennsylvania State Police and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to supporting victims," he stated.
In addition to Jones and Reilly, Natoria Jones (Terrance's daughter) along with three other drivers and 16 commercial sex buyers have been charged. The named drivers include James Rudolph, Rhaheem Hill, and Joseph Franklin; while the buyers are identified as Joseph Szegila among others.
Authorities highlight that charging commercial sex buyers is crucial for reducing trafficking by cutting off income sources for traffickers.
The operation reportedly ran from Jones' residence from 2012 until February 2023 using "Julia" to recruit workers facing hardships or substance abuse issues.
Senior Deputy Attorneys General Erik Olsen and Helen Park will prosecute this case. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Anyone with further information is urged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations at 215-452-5239.