Darnell Bernard Edwards, a 33-year-old pimp from Antioch, has been sentenced to almost 20 years in federal prison for his involvement in the human trafficking of minors. U.S. District Judge Ana de Alba handed down the sentence in Fresno federal court, following an investigation conducted by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Bakersfield police, and Antioch police.
Court documents revealed that between April and May 2019, Edwards transported two minors to the Desert Star Motel in Bakersfield, where they were forced into prostitution. Edwards also transported the victims to various cities in California and provided them with marijuana. Remarkably, Edwards and his victims all bore tattoos featuring the letter D and a crown.
The sentencing comes after Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case, highlighting the severity of Edwards’ crimes. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies led to his arrest and subsequent conviction.
This Bakersfield sex trafficker case sheds light on the grim reality of sex trafficking, particularly involving minors. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to combat this heinous crime and support its victims. If you or someone you know has been affected by sex trafficking, please reach out to the Women’s Rights Group for assistance and support.
