Joliet Man Charged with Sex Trafficking in Cook County

Introduction to the Case

A Joliet man was arrested and charged in connection with a commercial sex trafficking operation in Cook County last week. James Hardeman, 39, appeared in court on Saturday on charges of trafficking for labor/recruits, trafficking for labor/benefits, involuntary solitude causing financial harm, and promoting prostitution, according to the Cook County Sheriff’s Office.

The Suspect and Charges

James Hardeman (Cook County Sheriff’s Department)

Details of the Investigation

Last Wednesday, the sheriff’s office responded to an advertisement on a website known for hosting commercial sex solicitations. An undercover investigator met with the victim at a motel in Bridgeview where the victim had agreed to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money. Investigators learned the victim was being trafficked by Hardeman, who was waiting outside near the motel room. Investigators located Hardeman and took him into custody without incident.

Findings of the Investigation

Sheriff’s office investigators learned Hardeman allegedly recruited the victim into commercial sex work last November, had been keeping the proceeds, maintained possession of room keys, and provided security while the victim was inside the rooms with clients. The sheriff’s office connected the victim with its support services team, which provided victims with resources.

What We Know About the Case

• The suspect, James Hardeman, is a 39-year-old man from Joliet.
• He was charged with trafficking for labor/recruits, trafficking for labor/benefits, involuntary solitude causing financial harm, and promoting prostitution.
• The investigation started with an advertisement on a website known for commercial sex solicitations.
• The victim was met at a motel in Bridgeview and was being trafficked by Hardeman.

What We Don’t Know

It was unclear if there were any more victims involved in the case. Further investigations may be necessary to determine the full scope of the trafficking operation.

Conclusion

The arrest of James Hardeman highlights the ongoing issue of sex trafficking in Cook County and the efforts of law enforcement to combat it. The case underscores the importance of support services for victims of trafficking and the need for continued vigilance in identifying and prosecuting those involved in such crimes.

FAQs

• Q: Who was arrested in connection with the sex trafficking operation?
  A: James Hardeman, a 39-year-old man from Joliet.
• Q: What charges did Hardeman face?
  A: Trafficking for labor/recruits, trafficking for labor/benefits, involuntary solitude causing financial harm, and promoting prostitution.
• Q: How did the investigation begin?
  A: The sheriff’s office responded to an advertisement on a website known for hosting commercial sex solicitations.
• Q: Is it known if there were other victims?
  A: It was unclear if there were any more victims involved in the case.