Law enforcement officers uncover a human trafficking operation in New Jersey.
Eight individuals have been charged in connection with a human trafficking ring operating in Camden and Trenton, New Jersey. The operation used fake businesses to disguise its activities, luring victims with false job promises. Law enforcement’s investigation led to the rescue of 15 victims. Attorney General Matthew Platkin emphasized the state’s commitment to combating human trafficking and supporting victims’ recovery. Authorities encourage public awareness to help prevent such crimes.
Camden, NJ – Eight individuals have been charged for their role in a human trafficking ring operating in New Jersey, as announced by Attorney General Matthew Platkin during a recent press conference. This trafficking operation reportedly ran brothels in Camden and Trenton, employing a network of phony businesses to conceal its illicit activities.
The investigation into this criminal network began in May 2024 when law enforcement officials discovered a barber shop business card that provided no legitimate services at the listed address. Instead, the card directed calls to an automated message detailing prostitution services. Further scrutiny revealed a second business card for a fake plumbing business, both linked to the same locations.
Key figures within the trafficking operation include Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, also known as “Janet,” 55, from Hamilton, and Maria Soledad Xec Chan, 42, from Trenton. Both women are alleged leaders of the trafficking network responsible for luring victims under the guise of offering legitimate job opportunities. Other individuals implicated in the operation are Santiago Miranda-Gomez, 30, and Francisco Macariosut, 50, both from Trenton, who allegedly acted as “inspectors,” overseeing the trafficking activities.
Additional arrests include house managers Abel Aguilera-Ronquillo, 27, and Julio C. Delgado-Belmeo, 27, both from Trenton, as well as Flavio R. Navarrete-Reyes, 45, and Wilmer E. Pinargote-Chimbiligua, 29, from Camden. These individuals are accused of collecting money from prostitution houses, employing intimidation to maintain control over operations.
The brothels charged clients $50 for 15 minutes of sexual services, with victims receiving only half of that amount, amounting to $25. During the investigation, law enforcement executed search warrants in June 2024, leading to the discovery of 15 victims of trafficking. The victims were recruited with false promises of jobs in cleaning or restaurants, and threats of violence against their families were reportedly used to ensure compliance.
Attorney General Platkin highlighted the exploitation and loss of dignity experienced by the victims of this trafficking ring, reiterating the state’s commitment to dismantling such criminal networks. The investigation revealed a complex web of deceit designed to lure vulnerable individuals into the sex trade.
Individuals who may have witnessed or been affected by similar human trafficking situations are encouraged to report such incidents. The New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety has set up a 24-hour hotline for this purpose, which can be reached at 855-END-NJ-HT (855-363-6548).
This case underscores the ongoing fight against human trafficking within New Jersey, emphasizing the need for community awareness and involvement in combating such illegal activities. Authorities remain dedicated to preventing future instances of trafficking and assisting victims in their recovery and reintegration into society.
As law enforcement continues to investigate the full extent of this trafficking operation, the implications of these charges highlight a significant concern that affects many communities. Awareness efforts are crucial for identification and assistance of those at risk.
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