A New Haven woman, Jennifer Fortier, has been sentenced to 58 months in prison for sex trafficking charges and the interstate transportation of victims for prostitution. The sentencing took place in federal court in Boston, with Judge Denise J. Casper presiding. Following her imprisonment, Fortier will be subjected to three years of supervised release. The government had initially recommended an eight-year term.
In November 2024, Fortier admitted guilt for two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, as well as one count of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution purposes. Her indictment came in August 2023 alongside co-defendants Jermall Anderson and Latasha Anderson.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley remarked, "Jennifer Fortier inflicted violence against these women, who were vulnerable, homeless, unemployed, and suffering from drug addiction, all to feed the profits of this criminal sex-trafficking organization.”
Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England, stated, “Fortier worked alongside the now-convicted human trafficker Jermall Anderson, using violence and drugs to enforce his reign of terror over the women he trafficked.”
Between 2012 and 2016, Fortier, Jermall Anderson, and others forced victims into prostitution through violence, threats, and manipulation involving drugs such as heroin and cocaine. They targeted victims suffering from drug addiction and homelessness. The trafficking operations spanned across New England, New York, and New Jersey.
Jermall Anderson received a 15-year prison sentence in March 2025, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Latasha Anderson, another involved party, pleaded guilty in March 2025 and awaits sentencing on June 11, 2025.
The U.S. Attorney’s announcement was backed by contributions from multiple law enforcement entities including HSI New Haven, the Lynn and Tewksbury Police Departments, and the Hampden Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen W. Hassink led the prosecution effort.
For inquiries or information related to this case, individuals can reach out at 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.