HOUSTON – A couple is accused of forcing a young runaway to prostitute herself, then beat the girl and took her money.
Anthony Rideaux, 33, and Lashera “Nikki” Powell, 29, were charged with compelling prostitution of a minor; a first degree felony.
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On Thursday, deputies with the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office responded to a suspicious persons call at the Amerihomes Inn and Suites at 16410 North Freeway.
Deputies found a 17-year-old runaway, who had been physically beaten, forced into prostitution and was begging law enforcement to return her to the safety of Child Protective Services.
The Criminal Investigation Division’s Human Trafficking Investigator was called to the scene.
Investigators discovered the teen ran away from a local CPS home with her adult boyfriend, and was quickly turned to the streets and allegedly forced to prostitute by Rideaux and Powell. The girl met the couple at the hotel where she was staying.
The victim was returned to CPS custody and will receive counseling.
Investigators with Constable Mark Herman’s Office are processing evidence found in the couple’s apartment and believe Rideaux and Lashera possibly forced others to prostitute and surrender their money. Investigators are optimistic they can identify and locate additional victims.
Rideaux and Powell are being held in the Harris County Jail on $20,000 bond.