Gang members arrested, accused of sex trafficking adults and minors on the Figueroa corridor in South LA

Introduction to the Case

Six suspected members and associates of a South Los Angeles street gang were arrested on federal charges alleging they acted as pimps to promote and manage sex trafficking of adults and minors on the notorious Figueroa corridor. Federal prosecutors in Los Angeles said the 31-count indictment constitutes the first major takedown of a sex trafficking operation on the 3.5-mile stretch of Figueroa Street from Gage Avenue south to Imperial Highway, which is known for commercial sex workers and customers congregating there.

The Defendants and Charges

Lead defendant Amaya Armstead, 25, also known as “Lady Duck,” of South Los Angeles, is accused of trafficking a 14-year-old girl for prostitution, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Armstead and four co-defendants pleaded not guilty in Los Angeles federal court and were ordered to remain in custody. Trial was tentatively set for Oct. 7. According to the indictment, members and associates of the gang largely controlled sex trafficking and prostitution along the corridor, acting as pimps by managing and monitoring victims, pooling resources to rent motel rooms, and disciplining each other’s victims.

Methods of Operation

A victim who refused to hand earnings over to the gang or who otherwise disobeyed a pimp faced assaults, public humiliation, and the “withholding of affection, drugs or food,” according to federal prosecutors. Victims also were frequently branded with tattoos of a defendant’s street name or moniker, the indictment said. The U.S. Attorney’s Office contends that women and girls were recruited via social media or in person, and defendants focused on vulnerable minors, particularly those with financial or emotional struggles or who had run away from home or the foster care system. Pimps also allegedly plied victims with drugs, including oxycodone and methamphetamine, while recruiting females via false promises of a luxurious lifestyle, intimidation, and actual or threatened violence, according to court papers.

Specific Incidents

In April 2024, prosecutors allege, Armstead and an accomplice rented rooms at the Stadium Inn, a South Los Angeles motel, to traffic their victims. One victim included a 14-year-old girl, who worked as a prostitute for three days and was given condoms by Armstead to use for sex dates with customers, prosecutors allege. Armstead’s attorney could not immediately be reached for comment.

Gang Activities Beyond Sex Trafficking

According to the indictment, which names 11 defendants, some members of the gang produced rap music and videos, which often glorified the gang, sex trafficking, drug sales and firearms possession. Members also allegedly posted videos and photographs of their assaults on others to social media, in order to intimidate their victims and ensure compliance, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Law Enforcement Response

Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said convictions for sex trafficking offenses carry harsher sentences under federal law than state law. If convicted, some defendants in the case would face sentences of 15 years to life imprisonment, he said. “There are no meaningful consequences for their conduct under state law, so the federal government — aided by its local law enforcement partners — will step in to make sure these criminals face lengthy prison sentences,” Essayli said in a statement. “Today’s operation is the first step in returning the Figueroa Corridor — long known as prostitution haven — back to its residents who have suffered for too long while criminals were allowed to run amok.”

Ongoing Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking

In September 2024, federal, county and city officials in Los Angeles announced the Figueroa Human Trafficking Initiative, a partnership aimed at disrupting human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of minors in the corridor.

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Conclusion

The arrest of suspected gang members for sex trafficking on the Figueroa corridor marks a significant step in the fight against human trafficking in South Los Angeles. The operation highlights the collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local law enforcement to combat such crimes and ensure that perpetrators face severe penalties. As the community looks towards healing and recovery, it is essential to recognize the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation in preventing future instances of sex trafficking and exploitation.

FAQs

1. Q: What is the Figueroa corridor known for?
   A: The Figueroa corridor is known for commercial sex workers and customers congregating there.
2. Q: How many defendants are named in the indictment?
   A: The indictment names 11 defendants.
3. Q: What is the Figueroa Human Trafficking Initiative?
   A: The Figueroa Human Trafficking Initiative is a partnership aimed at disrupting human trafficking and the sexual exploitation of minors in the corridor.
4. Q: What are the potential sentences for the defendants if convicted?
   A: If convicted, some defendants in the case would face sentences of 15 years to life imprisonment.
5. Q: How were the victims recruited?
   A: Victims were recruited via social media or in person, with defendants focusing on vulnerable minors.