Minn. sting leads to sex-trafficking charge
An undercover sex-trafficking sting in St. Paul has led to charges against a man accused of forcing a teenage woman into prostitution.
A St. Paul Pioneer Press report says the sting was conducted as part of a national effort coinciding with the Super Bowl.
Prosecutors charged 27-year-old Melvin Nathaniel Stewart with a second-degree offense of engaging in sex trafficking.
The criminal complaint says investigators found online ads mentioning escort services from a young-looking female. An undercover officer responded and met the 19-year-old woman, who was from Eau Claire, Wis.
She identified Stewart as her pimp and said he wouldn't let her out of his sight. She says she and a friend wanted to leave but were afraid.
Stewart's attorney didn't immediately return a message seeking comment.
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