Gang Member Involved In Human Trafficking Ring Arrested: Sheriff

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — A three-month investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has led to the rescue of a human trafficking victim and the arrest of a man believed to be involved in a gang-related human trafficking ring.

Steven Tylor Cook, 29, of Tampa, a certified member of the Latin Kings gang, was arrested Tuesday after detectives said they identified him as one of several people involved in advertising escorts for sex through the Internet.

While conducting surveillance, detectives caught Cook dropping two women off at a motel in Hillsborough County. The women were arrested for prostitution and Cook was charged with possession of 10 or more counterfeit bills, transporting for prostitution, driving with a suspended license and possession of a firearm by a felon.

The investigation led detectives to a human trafficking victim who said Cook coerced her into performing sex for money.

As a result, Cook was additionally charged Tuesday with coercion for commercial sex acts by human trafficking and deriving support from the proceeds of prostitution.

"Human trafficking is modern slavery," said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. "It is something that I as your sheriff and us as a community cannot stand for."

He said, because of the diligence of the detectives on the case, one victim was rescued but there may be more.

"I am proud that our detectives didn't stop at the arrest made back in May," he said. "They knew there was more to the crimes and worked until they uncovered what was really happening. Because of that, the victim is now safe and future human trafficking at the hands of this suspect has been stopped."

Anyone who may have been one of Cook's victims is urged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-731-9714.