Steven Terrell Lewis, a resident of El Cajon, has been found guilty by a federal jury on charges related to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor and attempted sex trafficking by force or coercion involving an adult. The verdict was delivered in San Diego following evidence presented at trial.
The case against Lewis began with an incident on April 22, 2024, when he allegedly used his vehicle to trap a 14-year-old high school student on the sidewalk in El Cajon. He reportedly took her cellphone to obtain her number and later sent sexually explicit messages from a phone number ending in 8155. Despite blocking this number, the victim received further messages from another number via TextFree.
Lewis identified himself as "Pimpin" and invited the minor to join him for financial gain. The victim informed her high school coach, prompting responses from local law enforcement agencies including the El Cajon Police Department and San Diego Sheriff's Office.
Subsequently, Lewis targeted a 22-year-old woman through MegaPersonals on April 28, 2024. He arranged for her transportation to Roosevelt Avenue in National City for prostitution activities intended for his benefit. However, she was intercepted by an undercover officer who offered her resources to exit prostitution. Despite this intervention, Lewis continued sending threatening messages using both previously mentioned numbers.
Law enforcement officials conducted surveillance on Lewis leading to his arrest on May 16, 2024. During their investigation, officers discovered potential evidence suggesting other victims might exist based on a note found during searches of Lewis's belongings.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon emphasized the significance of the jury's decision stating: "The jury’s guilty verdicts are a powerful reminder that human trafficking has no place in our society." Shawn Gibson from Homeland Security Investigations echoed this sentiment highlighting inter-agency cooperation as crucial in securing justice.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta stressed ongoing efforts against human trafficking across the state while urging those affected to seek available resources: "Whether it’s for sex or labor...we’re committed to standing up for survivors."
San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl underscored collaborative efforts within task forces dedicated to protecting youth: "This case highlights the importance of collaboration."
Lewis faces sentencing scheduled for August 1, 2025. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyndzie M. Carter and Derek Ko are prosecuting this case under Case Number 24cr1349-JES.
Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding encounters with Lewis or knowledge about potential victims to contact the San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force at their hotline number provided above.