A Worcester, Massachusetts couple, Kiersten and Moises Soto, have been convicted of sex trafficking charges. The conviction, handed down on September 22, follows a six-day jury trial in which the couple was found guilty of one count each of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion. Kiersten Soto also faced additional charges for traveling or using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activities, according to the Justice Department.
Both individuals now face significant sentences that could lead to life in prison. Specifically, the charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion could result to at least 15 years to life behind bars for the Sotos. The trial unearthed unsettling evidence that from February through May 2022, the couple used extreme methods — including violence, threats, and manipulation — to traffic a young relative for commercial sex across several New England states. The prosecution also charged Moises Soto for employing physical violence, while Kiersten Soto allegedly made threats against the victim's safety and well-being.
In a chilling revelation, videos retrieved from the defendants' cell phones showed them cornering and verbally assaulting the victim. "Kiersten and Moises Soto built their so-called livelihood off of brutality and control," said U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley, in a statement. "The Sotos compounded their cruelty by recording the abuse – immortalizing the victim’s trauma for their own depraved purposes." The victim, now free from exploitation, begins the journey towards recovery and healing.
These convictions highlight the intensified efforts against human trafficking. "HSI has no tolerance for those who exploit and traffic vulnerable individuals," Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England, stated on the Justice Department. Their sentencing is scheduled for December 19, with U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman presiding. They could also face fines of up to $250,000 and mandatory restitution to the victim. The federal district court judge will ultimately determine the sentence, with the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines framing the decision.
The investigation and subsequent trial showcase collaborative law enforcement efforts, with contributions from local and state agencies, including the Marlborough and Worcester Police Departments and the Massachusetts State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Torey B. Cummings led the prosecution of the case.
