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.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.