Sex trafficking is not just a foreign phenomenon. Some estimates say that anywhere from 100,000 to 300,000 children in the U.S. are sexually exploited in the human trafficking underworld. This even strikes close to home as a 38-year-old San Antonio man was arrested on March 11th for sex trafficking. He allegedly paid a 16-year-old girl in crack cocaine, acting as her pimp as well as sexually assaulting her. He is currently being held in the Bexar County jail and his bail is set at $225,000.00. The charges he is currently facing are sexual assault of a child, human trafficking, and compelling prostitution.
The case began when an undercover police officer offered to pay the runaway teenager in exchange for sexual acts. When they also found drug paraphernalia in her possession, they took her to the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center. It was here that the girl told the authorities that R.P. would give her drugs and sexually assault her. She also stated that he tried to sell her as a prostitute on the internet. She referred to R.P. as her boyfriend and said that he would purchase motel rooms where she would meet patrons found on the internet. He would then use the money to buy drugs, giving some to the teenage girl.
What Does Texas Law Say About Sex Crimes?
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.011, sexual assault can occur if the actor compels the victim through physical force or violence. It can also occur if the victim is unconscious or physically unable to resist their advances. Although the case is still in the early stages, R.P. could be found guilty of this crime as well as several more. If you were accused of a sex crime, please contact The Law Office of John J. Fox in San Antonio. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of our clients and protecting their freedom whether they were falsely accused or know they have made a mistake. A San Antonio criminal attorney could fight for you!