Authorities have charged six people with prostitution and rescued one person after an investigation into human trafficking near the state line in Fort Mill.
Here is the press release from the York County Sheriff’s Office:
YORK COUNTY, SC (YCSO NEWS) In an effort to identify and stop human trafficking, the York County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group, Criminal Investigations Division, York County Multi- Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, and Homeland Security Investigations cited six people in a prostitution and human trafficking investigation.
Focusing in areas near the South Carolina state line in Fort Mill, Deputies, and Agents charged six individuals with prostitution, illegal narcotics or other crimes. Further investigation revealed that one person was a victim of human trafficking, having been forced or coerced into this illegal activity. This victim is receiving assistance from Homeland Security Investigations.
“We understand that individuals who engage in this type of illegal activity are often victims themselves. The York County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to enforcing the law, but we are also mindful of the circumstances that may lead a person to this life” said Sheriff Kevin Tolson.
As a result of the investigation the following individuals were cited for prostitution:
- Courtney Ann Kinner, 36, Summerville, SC
- Allyson Leigh Simmons, 49, Charlotte, NC
- Erin Emerald Touchbaum, 31, Charlotte, NC
- Wanda Jean Overcash, 43, Charlotte, NC
- Marissa Lyn May, 27, Jonesville Wisconsin
The sixth person involved is not being identified at this time. The case is under further investigation.