A collaborative operation led by Boston Police and other agencies resulted in the arrest of a suspect in connection with child sex trafficking.
Boston police arrested 29-year-old Shakera Pina during an undercover operation related to a child sex trafficking investigation. The collaborative effort involved multiple law enforcement agencies and led to the rescue of a 15-year-old girl. Pina faces several charges, including human trafficking and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. The operation highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking in Boston, with authorities urging community vigilance.
In a concerning turn of events, Boston police recently made a significant arrest in a child sex trafficking investigation. Shakera “Stacks” Pina, a 29-year-old Boston resident, was taken into custody on April 9 as part of an undercover operation aimed at addressing the serious issue of human trafficking in the area.
This operation was no small feat; it involved collaboration between the Boston Police Human Trafficking Unit, the Massachusetts State Police High-Risk Victims Unit, the FBI Trafficking Task Force, and the Randolph Police. Together, they targeted an online classified ad platform that had previously been linked to multiple cases of sex trafficking and exploitation.
During their investigation, detectives spotted a troubling sex advertisement that featured photos of a juvenile victim. The urgency of the situation prompted undercover officers to take action. They began corresponding with the individual managing the ad in an attempt to arrange a meeting for sexual services involving the minor. The undercover officers were determined to ensure the safety of the vulnerable young person in the midst of this alarming situation.
On the night of the operation, detectives received a call confirming that Pina had arrived at the hotel where the meeting was planned. This was only about 21 minutes after the initial contact. When law enforcement officers approached the hotel room, they found a 15-year-old girl inside. Upon identifying themselves, the officers acted quickly to transport the minor to a local hospital for evaluation and care, ensuring her immediate safety.
Meanwhile, Pina was waiting in a vehicle nearby after having transported the minor to the hotel. It didn’t take long for law enforcement to locate her. As officers carried out a traffic stop on her vehicle, she reportedly attempted to flee upon noticing the law enforcement presence. This response raised red flags, leading officers to believe that she was trying to destroy evidence inside her vehicle.
Upon searching Pina’s vehicle, police discovered several plastic bags containing marijuana, a digital scale, multiple denominations of U.S. currency, and condoms. These items further corroborated concerns about her involvement in illegal activities. Pina has since been charged with multiple offenses, including human trafficking, deriving support from prostitution, resisting arrest, and possession of a Class D substance (marijuana) with intent to distribute.
Following her arrest, Pina was arraigned in Boston Municipal Court where she pleaded not guilty to all charges. The judge set bail at an astonishing $100,000 in cash, with several strict conditions. These conditions include being subjected to GPS monitoring, home confinement, and restriction from any contact with individuals under the age of 18, highlighting the seriousness of the charges she faces.
The FBI Boston’s Child Exploitation – Human Trafficking Task Force expressed their pride in collaborating with Boston Police on this important investigation. They work diligently to protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Authorities are also urging the community to stay vigilant—anyone with information regarding human trafficking in Boston is encouraged to immediately contact the police’s human trafficking unit at (617) 343-6533.
It’s a stark reminder to all of us about the ongoing battle against human trafficking and the need for strong community involvement in combating these heart-wrenching crimes. Awareness and action are vital to ensuring the safety and protection of children in our neighborhoods.
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