Bail Bondsmen Arrested For Human Trafficking
Covington, LA (WGNO) — Two bail bondsmen have been arrested in connection with a human trafficking investigation, according to LSP.
Officials say 53-year-old James E. Johnson Jr. of Bush was arrested on Friday morning for two counts of human trafficking, two counts of first-degree rape, and one count of sexual battery.
James E. Johnson Jr.
The investigation began in March when detectives received information that Johnson had solicited sexual favors from multiple victims in exchange for bond debt relief.
Based on evidence obtained, detectives executed five search warrants at various businesses and properties in Covington and Amite.
During the course of executing the search warrant at a business in Amite, Investigators discovered evidence of pornography involving juveniles.
This discovery led to the arrest of Johnson’s 31-year-old son Patrick Johnson, who is also a bail bondsman.
Patrick Johnson was booked into the Amite Jail with three counts of possession of pornography involving juveniles.
The investigation is on-going and additional arrests and charges may be forthcoming.
Anyone with any information pertaining to this case is encouraged to contact the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit at (504) 310-7000.