BATON ROUGE, La. – In a recent federal complaint filed in the Middle District of Louisiana, shocking details of a sex trafficking operation allegedly organized and operated by a Venezuelan criminal organization known as “Tren de Aragua” (TDA) have emerged. The case sheds light on how accused sex traffickers lure foreign women to become sex workers and then coerce them into recruiting others into the same exploitative situation.

The complaint specifically targets an alleged TDA sex trafficking ring and its American operative, identified as Allbert Herrera Machado. The operation was brought to the attention of federal investigators by a courageous victim who risked her safety to expose the criminal activities.

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The victim’s harrowing ordeal began in Venezuela, where TDA members promised her immigration assistance and a better life in the United States in exchange for sex work. She was burdened with a $30,000 debt but was coerced into recruiting other women to work as prostitutes, offering a reduction in her debt as an incentive.

According to the complaint, the victim was eventually flown to Baton Rouge and placed in an apartment on S. Harrell’s Ferry Road, along with at least one other victim. A subsequent investigation by the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office revealed damning evidence, including used condoms, cash, sex toys, and a ledger documenting the victims’ debt.

The rescue operation led to the arrest of Allbert Herrera Machado, who claimed innocence and portrayed himself as unaware of the severity of the situation. However, the victims identified Machado as their handler, responsible for overseeing their activities, collecting payments, and enforcing strict “house rules.”

The victim’s bravery also helped build criminal cases against two other alleged gang members, Osleidy Vanesa Chourio Diaz, and Josmar Jesus Zambrano Chirinos. Diaz, who managed the financial aspects of the operation, and Zambrano, the alleged mastermind behind the American operation, were apprehended and indicted.

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Special Agent Brittany Theriot of Homeland Security Investigations emphasized the importance of vigilance in recognizing human trafficking, particularly within immigrant communities. She urged individuals to report any suspicions to the appropriate authorities, citing indicators such as victims’ inability to explain their circumstances or travel details.

If you suspect sex trafficking, report to the Louisiana state police hotline at 800-434-8007 or call 911. Victims in need of assistance can also contact the national human trafficking hotline at 888-373-7888.

As the case unfolds, the long-term fate of the victims and the extent of the operation’s reach remain unclear. Nonetheless, the exposure of this heinous crime and the ensuing legal actions offer hope for justice and support for victims of human trafficking.

 

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