Eight individuals face charges for operating a human trafficking and prostitution ring in South Jersey, according to authorities.
In a significant legal development, authorities in New Jersey have charged eight individuals with human trafficking as part of a sweeping operation that allegedly coerced more than a dozen women into prostitution. The charges stem from an investigation into a prostitution ring operating in South Jersey, with brothels reportedly located in Trenton and Camden. Attorney General Matt Platkin outlined the details of the case during a press conference, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations.
The ring was reportedly led by Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, 55, and Maria Soledad Xec Chan, 42, who used deceit and threats of violence to manipulate vulnerable women. The victims, ranging in age from 21 to 58, were primarily from South and Central America. Authorities revealed that the traffickers lured these women under the pretense of employment opportunities in domestic work or restaurant settings, only to force them into engaging in sexual acts with clients. This manipulation involved intimidation tactics, including threats to harm family members of the victims.
According to Theresa Hamilton, the Director of the Division of Criminal Justice at the attorney general’s office, the operation utilized multiple locations for illegal activities. Santiago Miranda-Gomez, 30, and Francisco Macariosut, 50, were involved in supervising the brothels, collecting money, and enforcing control over the women. Victims faced severe psychological and physical threats; in one instance, a victim was informed that she owed the traffickers ,000 in fees, which effectively trapped her in the operation.
The investigation commenced in May 2024, spurred by community tips regarding suspicious activities. Detectives uncovered business cards that falsely advertised various services, which were later revealed to serve as a front for the prostitution ring. The operation charged clients for 15 minutes with a woman, with the victims receiving only from each transaction.
Among those charged are four managers of the brothels, identified as Abel Aguilera-Ronquillo, Julio C. Delgado-Belmeo, Flavio R. Navarrete-Reyes, and Wilmer E. Pinargote-Chimbiligua. All eight defendants face serious charges, including human trafficking and racketeering. Given the extensive nature of this operation, Attorney General Platkin reiterated the profound impact on the lives of the victims, describing their experiences as a form of modern-day slavery. The case exemplifies a broader issue surrounding human trafficking and exploitation, shedding light on the urgent need for continued law enforcement vigilance and legal accountability in combatting these heinous crimes.
Communities are urged to remain alert and report suspicious activities, as authorities work towards dismantling such operations to protect vulnerable populations.
