A Searcy landlord has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for sex trafficking and drug charges. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentencing of Thomas Ray Kelso, 74, by United States District Judge James M. Moody Jr.
Kelso was indicted on August 1, 2023, following an investigation by the Central Arkansas Drug Task Force. The investigation revealed that Kelso distributed methamphetamine at his apartment complex in Searcy and exploited female residents. He coerced them into performing sex acts to maintain their electricity, pay rent, or obtain drugs.
In one instance, when a woman refused his advances, Kelso cut her power by removing her electricity meter. He also had a woman recruit others for him to exploit sexually.
Following a two-day trial ending on August 14, 2024, a federal grand jury found Kelso guilty on all four counts: three counts of sex trafficking and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Judge Moody imposed additional penalties including five years of supervised release and fines totaling $100,000—comprising a $50,000 fine and $50,000 restitution. Federal sentences do not include parole.
The case was investigated by the Searcy Police Department and Central Arkansas Drug Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Shelby Shelton.