A Royal Oak neurologist is facing charges of human trafficking and drug possession, as he is accused of exploiting trafficking victims and engaging in the purchase of narcotics. Gireesh Velugubanti, 49, has been charged with being part of a human trafficking enterprise, resulting in injury and commercial sexual activity and conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance of less than 50 grams. The charges came as part of an investigation into the Sonesta Suites trafficking ring, where three other individuals are also being prosecuted.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald has condemned the actions of the accused, stating, "Purchasing sex with trafficked women isn't a victimless crime. It is abuse." She pointed out that Velugubanti, who presumably has been leading a comfortable life, exploited the victims who had their personal agency or freedom stripped away by traffickers. According to a CBS News Detroit report, McDonald emphasized, "This defendant and men like him, often living comfortable lives, prey on victims who have been denied personal agency or freedom by traffickers. Sex trafficking only exists because so-called 'customers' create an economic incentive. They will be held accountable."
Investigations by the police revealed that Velugubanti allegedly ransomed essential health care services to abuse one or more victims, with McDonald stating that expecting sex as a condition for care is one of the most harmful acts a doctor can perpetrate. The Detroit News, which also covered the story, noted that Velugubanti does not currently have an attorney listed in court records, and his arraignment took place in the 46th District Court on the charges brought against him.
Public records unearth several past issues related to Velugubanti in both New Mexico and Michigan. His medical license in New Mexico was put on probation in 2011, expiring later that year. In Michigan, he faced convictions including an operating under the influence charge in 2006 and issues with patient files in 2018. As part of her office's increasing efforts to hold "johns" accountable, Oakland County Assistant Prosecutor Cindy Brown mentioned to The Detroit News in March that they were looking to start charging men who pay for sex with trafficked women and are possibly aware of the trafficking situation.
Following his arraignment, Velugubanti entered a not guilty plea, and his bond was set at $500,000 with a GPS tether and other conditions. As per a report by WXYZ, his next court date is scheduled for July 10.
