NEWARK, N.J. – Today, Jose Torres, 45, of Middlesex County, New Jersey, was found guilty on all four counts related to persuading, inducing, and enticing women to travel across state lines for prostitution purposes, as stated by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
The conviction follows a six-day trial overseen by U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in the Newark federal court. As per the evidence presented and case documents, between May 2015 and October 2019, Torres targeted commercial sex workers, convincing them to travel from places as far as Canada and New York to engage in prostitution activities in New Jersey. He sought out these women on prostitution websites, luring them with promises of significant payments.
However, upon their arrival in New Jersey, Torres reneged on his payment promises. Confrontations over payment often took a dark turn, with Torres becoming aggressive, and in several instances, assaulting and raping the victims.
The coercion and enticement charges against Torres each hold a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison along with a potential fine of up to $250,000. The sentencing is slated for Feb. 27, 2024.