Two More Arrests in Alleged Teen Prostitution Ring

Pinellas County Sheriff's detectives have arrested two more people in connection with a suspected teen prostitution ring thought to have operated out of a Palm Harbor apartment.

Investigators say Mikki Lightsey Pitts, 49, and Michael Bowers, 19, helped two girls under the age of 18 prostitute themselves. Detectives say the pair assisted James Garret Perdue, 61, with the operation of the prostitution ring.

Perdue was arrested in May on multiple charges in connection with the prostitution ring ().

Detectives started watching Perdue's apartment, located at 655 9th St., back in April, after receiving complaints from neighbors about possible drug activity and young girls who were coming and going from the home.

Pitts and Bowers were arrested Thursday night. 

Detectives say that Bowers took photos of the teens that were used in online escort ads. They say he also provided security to the girls while they were engaged in their appointments.  Bowers is charged with one count of procuring a minor for prostitution. He is already in jail on unrelated burglary charges.  

Detectives say Pitts taught the girls how to word the ads and suggested prices for services and hotel locations. She is also accused of using her credit card to pay for the online ads and let the teens use her clothes and makeup for their appointments. Investigators say Pitts also had an ad on Backpage.com in which she offered herself for escort services.

Perdue is still in jail and is being held on $40,155 bond. He is listed as a fugitive from Coffee County, TN. Perdue is charged with:

• Promoting Sexual Performance by a Child
• Child Abuse
• Sexual Performance by a Child
• Possession of Methamphetamine
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

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