Authorities in New Jersey have charged eight individuals with first-degree racketeering and human trafficking, accusing them of running a prostitution ring that operated brothels in Trenton and Camden. The announcement was made by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ).
The alleged leaders of the network, Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, also known as "Janet," and Maria Soledad Xec Chan, are accused of luring victims to the brothels. Santiago Miranda-Gomez and Francisco Macariosut were identified as "inspectors" responsible for collecting money from the houses and ensuring operations continued through intimidation.
The house managers included Abel Aguilera-Ronquillo, Julio C. Delgado-Belmeo, Flavio R. Navarrete-Reyes, and Wilmer E. Pinargote-Chimbiligua. All eight individuals face charges of first-degree racketeering, human trafficking, and other offenses.
Attorney General Platkin stated: “Human trafficking organizations like the one described in these complaints exploit vulnerable individuals and rob them of their freedom, dignity and basic human rights.” He emphasized his office's commitment to dismantling such networks.
DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton highlighted ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking: “The Division of Criminal Justice has a dedicated unit of detectives and prosecutors solely focused on combating human trafficking across New Jersey.”
Julia Einbond from Covenant House New Jersey stressed the importance of support for survivors: “Covenant House New Jersey is committed to ensuring every victim is connected with the resources they need to navigate the challenging road to recovery ahead.”
Investigations began in May 2024 when DCJ detectives uncovered an enterprise allegedly led by Bracamonte and Xec Chan. Business cards advertising false businesses were found at locations where trafficking was suspected.
On June 25, 2025, search warrants were executed at five locations where items related to commercial sex were discovered along with fifteen victims. Four victims claimed they were misled about job opportunities before being forced into sex work.
Deputy Attorneys General Kathleen Dillon and Karen Bornstein are prosecuting the case under Bureau Chief Laura Magnone's supervision. The investigation involved several law enforcement agencies including New Jersey State Police and Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
First-degree racketeering charges could result in sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years in state prison along with significant fines. The defendants remain innocent until proven guilty.
In January 2023, Attorney General Platkin launched a Human Trafficking Unit within DCJ which has since increased its caseload significantly compared to previous years.
Additionally, a public awareness campaign named S.T.A.L.L.S. for Safety was initiated in 2024 to help report suspected human trafficking cases through visible posters across public spaces in New Jersey.
Anyone who suspects or has been a victim of human trafficking is encouraged to contact relevant hotlines provided by the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety.
