A Sioux Falls man charged with pimping and prostitution and accused of trafficking women for sex out of a massage parlor in the area was held in jail on bond Monday.
Willie Charles Whitman, 47, was charged in July with pimping or renting for prostitution and practicing massage without a license after police conducted a weeks-long sting investigation into a massage service.
PIERRE, S.D. — Legislation to better protect and help victims of human trafficking in South Dakota will take effect on July 1. “This bill takes important steps to protect our state from the horrors of human trafficking, crack down on traffickers, and provide for victims through expanded services and resources”, said Governor Noem.
“Sex trafficking is happening here in South Dakota. I’m glad to see we’re identifying it, and we’re bringing those to justice who are doing the perpetrating,” Becky Rassmussen said.
“I’m happy to see that law enforcement was able to catch these individuals and go from there,” Michelle Trent said.
Michelle Trent is the assistant director at the Compass Center. She says this crime happens more than you think.
Two men have been charged federally with human trafficking of a juvenile girl in and around Mitchell, according to federal court papers.
Two men have been charged federally with human trafficking of a juvenile girl in and around Mitchell, according to federal court papers.
Finding new and innovative ways to combat the demand for purchased sex, raise awareness to this nationwide epidemic, and provide safe environments for victims.
