A Lafayette man has been taken into custody for the third time in connection with an alleged nanny trafficking scheme, which investigators say involved him posing as a person with special needs and coercing caregivers into performing intimate childcare tasks, including diaper changes. Authorities identified the suspect as 35-year-old Rutledge Deas IV.
According to the Louisiana State Police, Special Victims Unit detectives launched their latest investigation earlier this month after a caregiver reported suspicious behavior. The release states that Deas allegedly used an online service connecting families with nannies, arranged for a caregiver to visit a Lafayette residence, and then presented himself as a special-needs client, reportedly demanding diaper changes and other personal care. He was arrested on Thursday on one count under LA R.S. 14:46.2, the state statute covering human trafficking, and booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center.
How Investigators Say the Scheme Worked
Detectives say Deas used caregiving and nanny platforms while posing online as a family seeking care for a person with special needs. Investigators allege he directed a caregiver to a Lafayette address and then presented himself as the client, requesting care typically provided to infants and toddlers, including repeated diaper changes.
Investigators say the scheme was intended to mislead caregivers into providing personal care under false pretenses. The investigation remains ongoing, and detectives continue working to determine how many individuals may have been affected.
A Familiar Pattern for Detectives
Court records and previous reporting indicate that the latest case follows a familiar pattern. Deas pleaded guilty in 2020 to multiple human trafficking counts and related drug charges. His prison sentence was suspended, and he was placed on five years of probation, which included counseling and community service requirements. State police and local reports indicate that Deas was previously arrested in November 2019 and again in December 2021 on similar allegations.
What the Law Says and How to Report Tips
Louisiana’s human trafficking law, LA R.S. 14:46.2, criminalizes recruiting, harboring, or obtaining another person through fraud, force, or coercion for labor or services. Penalties range from up to 10 years of hard labor to longer sentences when sexual activity or minors are involved. Justia provides a detailed summary of the statute’s sentencing ranges and aggravating factors.
Detectives are asking anyone with information, or anyone who believes they may have been contacted or victimized in a similar manner, to call the tip line at 504-310-7012, as cited by KPLC, or to contact local law enforcement.
Deas remains in custody at the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center as investigators continue their inquiry, and officials say they anticipate that additional victims may come forward.
