By DJ Harding –
Arrested on December 16th 2022 a Worcester couple by the names Kiersten (29) and Moises (30) Soto were indicted on one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking , one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, and one count of traveling or using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity.
According to the indictment from February through May of 2022 the Sotos used force, fraud, and coercion to traffic a victim for commercial sex in 4 of the 6 New England States (Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.) In Addition Kiersten violated the travel act by traveling and using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity, specifically prostitution.
The charges of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and sex trafficking by force,fraud, and coercion each provide for a sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of traveling or using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activities, specifically prostitution, provides a up to 5 year sentence , at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.
Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Matthew B. Millhollin, Special Agent in Charge of the Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Special assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Marlboro and Worcester Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Leah B. Foley of Rollins’ Criminal Division is prosecuting the case. At this time these details contained in the indictment are still allegations. The defendants are still to be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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