CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa — A Des Moines man has been federally indicted on multiple charges related to sex trafficking and interstate prostitution following an unsealed indictment in the Northern District of Iowa.
Marlin Santana Thomas Sr., 49, faces eight counts — four counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and four counts of interstate transportation for the purpose of prostitution through coercion and enticement, according to federal prosecutors.
The indictment alleges that between 2009 and 2015, Thomas used force, fraud and coercion to compel four adult women to engage in commercial sex acts within the Northern District of Iowa and other locations. Prosecutors also say he transported the women from Iowa to Illinois and North Dakota for prostitution purposes.
Each count of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a maximum of life, along with a minimum of five years to life of supervised release. A conviction would also mandate restitution and could include a fine of up to $250,000.
The FBI and Des Moines Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Nydle and Trial Attorney Slava Kuperstein of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.
The FBI is requesting that anyone with information related to Thomas contact its Omaha Field Office at (402) 493-8688.
Thomas faces federal charges that could bring life in prison if convicted.
