Harris County Investigators Rescue Chicago Teen From Human Traffickers

HOUSTON, TX — Investigators with the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office arrested two women who they said lured a 14-year old Chicago girl to Houston, and forced her into a life of prostitution.

Undercover deputies arrested Teresa Henry, 20, and Centurrie Deshunn Garrett, 24, on Thursday and charged both with human trafficking and compelling prostitution of a minor.

According to Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman, investigators learned about the victim while conducting a search of an online sex site, and saw the photograph of the girl who resembled a runaway reported from Chicago, the Houston Chronicle reported. (Want to get daily updates about traffic news and other events going on in your area? Sign up for the free Houston Patch morning newsletter.)

Investigators arranged a meeting at the North Villa Inn Motel, in the 16500 block of Interstate 45, and FM 1960 where prostitution arrests are common, where they met with the girl and Henry, who coordinated the meeting.

Deputies arrested Henry, and Garrett, who was in an adjoining room with her infant child, was also arrested.

The infant was placed in CPS custody.

The girl told deputies that Henry convinced her to come to Houston, and that when she arrived, Henry and Garrett had forced her into prostitution, KTRK reported.

Investigators have not said how long the girl was in Houston.

The girl is currently in protective custody and is expected to be reunited with her family.

Investigators said there may be more human trafficking victims related to this case, and that additional charges against Henry and Garrett are possible.

Image: Shutterstock

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