A Cleveland man has been handed a lengthy prison sentence for coercing a dozen women into prostitution through violence and other means, spanning multiple states. According to a statement by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael O’Malley, Deondre Inkton, age 32, will serve 30 to 37½ years behind bars following his February 5 guilty plea on several felony charges, which include trafficking in persons, promoting prostitution, and money laundering.
Inkton's case was brought to a close by the efforts of the Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, whose investigation, as detailed by the attorney general's office, determined that the man had posted over 4,000 online sex-related advertisements. These spanned Ohio and 11 other states, with a particular focus on Ohio. Evidence revealed that Inkton had managed to systematically abuse and exploit women to solicit money from their prostitution, which he then received through cash and electronic transfers. Over a decade, he transported his victims across state lines to continue and to expand his illegal activities.
The Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force, led by the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, comprises multiple law enforcement partners, including the Ashtabula County Sheriff's Office, Cleveland Police, and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, to name a few. Their joint efforts underscore a commitment to disrupting human trafficking operations that prey on vulnerable individuals.
Prosecutor O'Malley proudly acknowledged the collaborative endeavor, stating through Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, "I am incredibly proud to be one of the many law enforcement partners on the Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force." He credited their hard work with Inkton's takedown, highlighting the importance of cooperation in the fight against these crimes. The task force's intensive probe has successfully put a stop to Inkton's decade-long reign of exploitation and abuse, ensuring that he will no longer be able to harm others for his own financial benefit.
For those suspecting human trafficking activities within Ohio, there are several avenues for reporting. Calls can be made to (844) END-OHHT, texts sent to 847411 with the message "ENDOHHT," or information submitted through the END OHHT app, available on both Apple and Android platforms. The attorney general's office also encourages online reports through its official website, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.
