Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced on May 15 the arrests of thirteen residents of New Jersey on charges related to an alleged human trafficking ring operating in Central and South Jersey.
The case is significant because it involves allegations of physical and emotional abuse, commercial sex acts, and drug distribution. Authorities say the accused exploited vulnerable individuals for profit, prompting a coordinated response from law enforcement agencies.
According to the Office of the Attorney General, those charged include Shalaby Hicks, Nathaniel Clay, Shawn Williams, Raymond Edness, Richard Wood, Amber Temean, Eleana Kuzel, Deena Turner, Kelley Plotts, Anthony Hicks Simms, Bernard Dandridge, Nicholas Bray, and Michael Amoroso. They face various offenses including racketeering, conspiracy, human trafficking and drug-related charges. “The physical and emotional abuse of human trafficking leaves scars that stay with victims for the rest of their lives,” said Attorney General Davenport. “It is our mission to relentlessly pursue those who exploit others. Anyone who engages in this kind of criminal activity should know one thing: you will be held accountable.”
Division of Criminal Justice Director Theresa L. Hilton said: “This takedown reflects the power of coordinated law enforcement efforts, working together to dismantle trafficking networks. These cases can be complicated requiring cooperation across agencies and disciplines to protect survivors and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.” Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police added: “Human trafficking is a cruel and predatory crime that targets the most vulnerable members of our society… The New Jersey State Police remain unwavering in our commitment to combating human trafficking… These arrests send a clear message: this exploitation will not be tolerated in our communities.”
Documents filed in court state that from January 1 last year through present day investigators tracked activities across Middlesex, Ocean, Camden and Burlington counties involving forced commercial sex acts posted online by victims under control of managers working for Hicks or Clay at hotels in Pennsauken or Maple Shade.
Authorities recovered drugs including crack cocaine and fentanyl during searches at hotels associated with suspects; fifteen victims were found during these operations. Additional assistance came from county prosecutor’s offices as well as federal agencies such as Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Medical services were provided by several organizations named by officials.
Penalties for first-degree human trafficking include sentences ranging from twenty years up to life imprisonment with substantial fines if convicted; all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
