Three Cuban citizens have been sentenced for sex trafficking and other crimes related to strip clubs in the Houston, Texas area, according to federal prosecutors. Rasiel Gutierrez Moreno, 38, received a sentence of more than 17 years, while Hendry Jimenez Milanes, 39, was given a 10-year sentence. Rafael Mendoza Labrada, 29, was sentenced to more than two years of time served. Moreno was also ordered to pay $451,298 in restitution, and Milanes was ordered to pay $359,108.
The defendants were accused of terrorizing female migrants and exploiting them for financial gain. They brought women from Cuba to the United States and forced them to work in Houston strip clubs, such as Michaels’ International, where they were made to engage in sex acts with patrons. Moreno admitted to forcing at least 20 women to work in the clubs and keeping the money they earned. He also admitted to using violence against the women and their families.
One victim was beaten by Moreno, and he ensured that another victim saw the injuries. When one woman managed to escape, he contacted her family in Miami and Cuba to demand that she return to work and finish paying her debt to him.
U.S. Attorney Alamdar Hamdani stated, These human smugglers terrorized female migrants, using Houston’s strip clubs combined with psychological threats and sexual violence for their personal financial gain. The victims came to the United States in search of a new life, were especially vulnerable, and the defendants took advantage of that.
Moreno pleaded guilty to charges of sex trafficking and interstate travel in aid of racketeering. Milanes pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement, and Labrada pleaded guilty to interstate travel in aid of racketeering.
The sentencing of these individuals represents a step towards justice for the victims who were subjected to horrific exploitation. Such cases highlight the importance of strong law enforcement efforts in combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable individuals from falling victim to these criminal acts. The sentences imposed serve as a warning to others who engage in similar crimes, that they will be held accountable for their actions.
While the prosecutions bring some closure to the victims and a sense of justice, it is crucial to continue raising awareness about human trafficking and providing support to survivors. Efforts must be made to improve prevention strategies, identify victims, and facilitate their recovery and reintegration into society.
It is a reminder that more needs to be done to address the root causes of human trafficking and to dismantle the criminal networks that profit from this heinous trade. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to create a safer future, free from human trafficking and exploitation.
These convictions should serve as a call to action for communities to stay vigilant and report any suspicions of human trafficking. By working together, we can protect vulnerable individuals and put an end to this appalling crime.
