Attorney General Ken Paxton announced the arrest of Deveon Dwayne Byrd in Houston, Texas, for charges related to sex trafficking minors. A 17-year-old victim was also recovered during the operation.
"The sex trafficking of minors is one of the most heinous and disgusting crimes imaginable, and I will continue to use the full force of my office to put these sick predators behind bars," stated Attorney General Paxton. He further expressed gratitude for the "brave work by our Human Trafficking Unit and law enforcement partners who helped rescue this young victim." Paxton emphasized that "Texas will not tolerate those who prey on children and exploit the innocent."
The arrest took place on May 7th, 2025, following an investigation led by the Office of the Attorney General's Human Trafficking Unit. The investigation involved monitoring online advertisements suspected of involving a female victim under 18 years old. Upon confirming her location in Houston, multiple agencies including the OAG Fugitive Apprehension Unit, Department of Public Safety Human Trafficking Unit, and Houston Police Department collaborated to rescue the victim from a hotel on Westheimer Avenue. Byrd was arrested at the scene and taken into custody at Harris County Jail.
The investigation is ongoing with continued efforts from Attorney General Paxton’s Human Trafficking Unit and the Harris County District Attorney's office.