Kenner police say a three-year human trafficking investigation has finally led to an arrest and an extradition back to Jefferson Parish, in a case that centers on a victim brought to Louisiana as a minor and allegedly coerced, abused and sexually assaulted.
Detectives identified the suspect as Juven Alexis Pineda Paz, also known as Flaquito Camacho Velazquez. He faces one count of human trafficking and three counts of second-degree rape, according to WDSU. Police say the investigation, which began in 2023, grew into a multi-agency effort that included Homeland Security Investigations and other partners.
"If you see something, say something. Human trafficking thrives in silence. A single phone call could help save a victim from exploitation and abuse," Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley said. The department is urging anyone who believes they may be a victim, or who has information about trafficking, to contact local law enforcement immediately.
Arrest and Charges
According to police, Pineda Paz was located out of state and arrested by the North Carolina Highway Patrol on April 24, then extradited to Kenner to face the charges. Investigators allege the victim was brought from Honduras as a minor and subjected to coercion, threats and physical and sexual abuse. Those allegations are part of the pending case, as reported by WDSU.
Kenner's Recent Push Against Online Predators
The arrest comes on the heels of a series of Kenner operations targeting online predators and child exploitation networks, including a cyber sweep in May that led to a dozen arrests and dozens of charges. For more background on the police unit and its recent enforcement work, see Kenner cops spring cyber trap.
Legal Process and What's Next
The charges against Pineda Paz are allegations, and the case will proceed through the Jefferson Parish court system as prosecutors review the investigation and evidence. Kenner police are asking anyone with tips or concerns related to human trafficking to contact the department so detectives can pursue leads and work to protect potential victims.
