Man arrested for gaslighting teen into sex trafficking

Authorities have arrested and indicted a man in his 20s for allegedly using psychological manipulation, known as gaslighting, to coerce a teenage girl into sex trafficking. The Daegu District Prosecutors' Office, Kimcheon Branch, announced the indictment of a 26-year-old suspect identified only as 'A' on charges related to the Child and Adolescent Sexual Protection Act.

According to the investigation, suspect 'A' met the 16-year-old victim, identified as 'B,' through an acquaintance in June 2024. He is accused of exploiting her trust and psychologically dominating her to force her into sex work on two separate occasions. The indictment further alleges that he took the proceeds from these activities and used them for his own entertainment expenses.

Investigators found that suspect 'A' played a direct role in facilitating the crimes. He reportedly drove the victim to the locations where the sex work occurred and waited nearby to collect the money. Prosecutors decided to pursue a custodial indictment after the suspect, initially sent to trial without detention, failed to appear for his court dates, necessitating further investigation and his subsequent arrest.

A prosecutor stated, "We will do our best not only to thoroughly investigate allegations of sex crimes against children and adolescents but also to protect and support the victims of these crimes." The case highlights the severe exploitation faced by vulnerable minors and the legal efforts to prosecute perpetrators.

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We will do our best not only to thoroughly investigate allegations of sex crimes against children and adolescents but also to protect and support the victims of these crimes.