A Maryland man has been charged for allegedly coercing an 18-year-old to travel from Massachusetts to Maryland for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex. David Kaufman, 44, has been indicted on two counts of persuading and coercing an individual to engage in prostitution and aiding and abetting. Authorities found additional evidence indicating that Kaufman victimized minors and young adults, aged 14 to 20, by compensating them for Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) and enticing them to travel to his Baltimore penthouse or other locations for sex acts.
Kaufman reportedly coerced another victim to make two trips from Massachusetts to his Baltimore penthouse, paying for the travel expenses. Allegations state that Kaufman provided the victim with alcohol and drugs until the victim was intoxicated, then convinced the individual to engage in sex acts, which he videotaped. In return for these acts, Kaufman allegedly gave the victim money, gifts, and electronic transfers, including a Louis Vuitton bag after a February 2024 instance.
Further allegations in public filings reveal Kaufman's interactions with minors, aged 14 to 17, offering them money and gifts in exchange for CSAM and sex acts, which were also recorded. These actions took place at various locations, including his Baltimore residence.
The charges related to coercing a person to travel for prostitution carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison, with a possible three-year supervised release and a fine reaching $250,000. Sentences are determined by a federal judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley and James Crowley, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division, announced these charges. Support came from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Maryland, the FBI Baltimore Field Office, and the Baltimore Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Torey B. Cummings and Craig E. Estes are handling the prosecution.
"The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law."
Anyone with information or questions regarding this investigation is advised to contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.