Sacramento County, California – The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office is looking for more victims following the arrest of a local couple accused of trafficking two adolescent girls. John Cheso, 46, and Shannon Powell, 35, were detained under charges of human trafficking, with each held on a bail of at least $1 million.
The arrests took place in Sacramento County’s North Highlands, a region now connected to these horrible acts. On Sunday, a deputy patrolling close to Watt Avenue and Winona Way came upon a horrific situation that resulted in the rescue of one of the victims. The sheriff’s office reported about the initial encounter and confirmed that that the department rescued a young girl who was being trafficked about the initial encounter.
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After this rescue, the deputy went back to the area about 8 p.m. the same day and spotted two young females in lingerie close to a car, later identified as 17-year-olds and verified to be victims of trafficking. The sheriff’s office claims the youngsters revealed they were trafficked by family friends, which resulted in Cheso and Powell’s identification and arrest.
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The scenario illustrates the sad reality of human trafficking in nearby areas. The sheriff’s office said in a statement that detectives discovered from the two teenagers they were being trafficked by family friends.
Authorities are concerned as the investigation goes on about the likelihood of more unreported incidents connected to the accused. Anyone with information should come forward, according the Sheriff’s Office. Potential sources can get in touch with the authorities at 916-874-5115 or 916-443-4357. Those who choose to assist in the investigation are promised confidentiality and a possible cash incentive.