A Las Vegas man, identified as 36-year-old Marcus Boyd, has been charged with human trafficking a minor after a 14-year-old girl was found being exploited in Anaheim, California. As reported by KTNV, the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) acted upon received tips on July 9th and located the girl on the same day.
The investigation quickly escalated with the aid of the California Highway Patrol Border Division’s Investigative Services Unit and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Within less than twelve hours, the authorities managed to apprehend Boyd after he attempted to flee during a traffic stop. According to New Santa Ana, "Officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by the suspect, but the man failed to stop and led officers on a short vehicle pursuit". After a brief chase, Boyd was caught following an attempted on-foot escape.
Furthering the weight of the allegations, a search of the vehicle Boyd had been driving resulted in the recovery of a firearm suppressor. He faces multiple offenses, including the human trafficking of a minor, pandering a minor, possession of a silencer, and evading a police officer. Boyd's arrest highlights the intense focus of the OCHTTF and partner agencies on combating sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Boyd is currently detained at the Anaheim Police Department's Detention Facility, with bail set at $1 million.
The commitment of the OCHTTF is reinforced by its multifaceted approach towards eradicating human trafficking. The Orange County District Attorney’s HEAT Unit aims to bring justice for victims and penalize perpetrators through Prosecution, Education, Resources, and Publicity as outlined by New Santa Ana. Additionally, the OCHTTF's collaborative enforcement and investigative efforts are backed by various local and federal agencies. If anyone suspects incidences of human trafficking, they are urged to call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline at (888) 373-7888, or to reach out to local law enforcement.
