Suspect Identified In Rowan County Human Trafficking Investigation

Caryn Little, Deeandra Michel, Jack Hale, Emma Mondo,

Update (3/20/24)

The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office have arrested Kadeem Zelique Williams for his involvement in a human trafficking investigation involving a 16-year-old girl, according to a news release.

Kadeem Zalique Williams

Kadeem Williams

The release states that detectives responded to online ads for escort services which resulted in the juvenile being sent to Salisbury from Charlotte, which was arranged by Williams, and was interviewed by the officers. After further investigation, it was learned that Williams groomed the juvenile by offering her food, shelter and a phone and had operated services out of a hotel where the victim was kept, as said in the news release.

The Sheriff’s Office said they transported the victim to a child advocacy center where she spoke with a forensic interviewer and enough information was gained for an arrest warrant for Williams. They said the interview also revealed that the juvenile was physically abused by Williams, including being chocked just one day before being rescued. The warrant was for felony promoting prostitution of a minor, felony assault by strangulation and assault on a female.

Detectives say they discovered that Williams was on parole for robbery with a dangerous weapon and was being monitored by an ankle bracelet. Rowan County Sheriff’s Office deputies and CMPD officers responded to the hotel he was staying at and took him into custody, according to the release.

Watch the full press conference here.

Original Story (3/15/24)

SALISBURY, N.C. -– Officers with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Officer conducted an undercover human trafficking investigation Wednesday March 13th.

The investigation began when officers located a 16-year-old girl who was reported missing out of Charlotte, N.C.

The juvenile was found to have been the victim of forced prostitution that was being organized by a 33-year-old convicted felon on parole.

No further details at the this time. Check back for updates.