A federal jury in Delaware has convicted Clifton H. Gibbs, a 68-year-old from Sussex County, on multiple charges of sex trafficking and forced labor. The jury found Gibbs guilty of seven counts of sex trafficking involving adult victims, five counts of forced labor, and one count related to interstate transportation for prostitution.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Gibbs exploited his victims' heroin addiction and fear of withdrawal to coerce them into commercial sex work, panhandling, manual labor on his property, and theft for resale. His co-defendant, Brooke Waters, had previously pleaded guilty to similar charges.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon commented on the conviction: "Today’s conviction vindicates the rights of multiple victims who the defendant trafficked over several years within the District of Delaware." She emphasized that Gibbs preyed on individuals suffering from opiate addiction for profit.
Acting U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Hanson expressed hope that the verdict provides closure for the victims: "I commend the victims’ bravery and willingness to testify to bring this defendant to justice."
Special Agent in Charge Edward V. Owens highlighted the collaboration between Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Department of Justice in combating human trafficking: "Gibbs preyed on vulnerable individuals... HSI remains committed to working alongside our federal partners."
Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy described Gibbs' actions as "reprehensible," noting that such behavior undermines human dignity and freedom.
During a seven-day trial, evidence showed that Gibbs targeted young women addicted to heroin by offering housing and drugs while coercing them into commercial sex acts. He kept all proceeds from these acts while providing minimal drugs to prevent withdrawal sickness. Additionally, he used physical force against some victims who disobeyed him.
Gibbs now faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison with a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled later.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Knox along with Trial Attorneys Christina Randall-James and Leah Branch from the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.
The public is encouraged to report any information about human trafficking through the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org for more information about efforts against human trafficking.