Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that Colette A. Mahan, also known as "Pimpin' Amanda," was sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for sex trafficking. Mahan, 41, from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty on May 23, 2024, to one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion.
Court records indicate that Mahan trafficked numerous female victims over at least 17 years using false promises and extreme physical violence. Victims included minors as young as 14 years old. Mahan forced them to solicit sex at various locations across several states and demanded all their earnings. Despite prior arrests, this marks her first felony conviction and prison sentence.
United States District Court Judge Brett H. Ludwig noted the seriousness of Mahan's crimes during sentencing. He highlighted how Mahan exploited young women and girls to finance luxuries for herself while knowing the impact of such actions due to her own past victimization.
"For many years, Ms. Mahan sought to dehumanize others for her own financial benefit," stated U.S. Attorney Haanstad. He praised the victims' courage in sharing their experiences and commended the efforts of law enforcement in pursuing justice.
Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle of the FBI Milwaukee Field Office emphasized the importance of stopping individuals like Mahan from exploiting victims: "The sentence handed down sends a message to individuals who prey upon vulnerable women."
The case was investigated by the FBI and Milwaukee Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Laura S. Kwaterski and Erica J. Lounsberry.