Man Arrested on Sex Trafficking, Prostitution Charges at Katy Motel

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

January 6, 2022

By Natalie Cook Clark

A man wanted on felony charges of sex trafficking and promoting prostitution was arrested this week at a Katy motel.

Man Arrested for Sex Trafficking, Promoting Prostitution at Katy Motel

Deputies from Harris County Constable Ted Heap’s Major Offenders Division arrested Marlon Anthony Bryan, 28, on Tuesday, January 4 after a two-month investigation. Bryan was operating out of and arrested at the Palace Inn near Katy Freeway and Westgreen.

“This is a despicable crime,” says Harris County Constable Ted Heap. “I and my Precinct 5 deputies are committed to bringing those who are responsible for forcing young women into a life of prostitution to justice.”

18-Year-Old Victim Reached Out For Help

An investigation was launched two-months ago after a 18-year-old victim came forward for help saying that she had been forced to have sex for money with multiple men at the motel at the 21300 block of the Katy Freeway.

Through a thorough investigation, deputies identified Bryan and obtained an arrest warrant. He has been charged with sex trafficking, promoting prostitution and tampering with evidence.

Sex Trafficking Crimes Rise Both Locally and Nationally

According to Crime Stoppers of Houston, there are 244,000-400,000 victims of sex trafficking reported nationwide each year.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg says that Harris County sex trafficking crimes have more than doubled since the start of the pandemic.

“Give credit to our deputies for coming to this young woman’s aid and getting her out of a dangerous situation,” says Constable Heap. “Putting this suspect behind bars and keeping him behind bars will keep other young women from being trapped and trafficked too.”