A state-funded Texas shelter for young female victims of sex trafficking is under investigation after a former employee allegedly coerced two of its residents into creating “sexual exploitation material” for sale, the facility confirmed in a statement Thursday.
Operators of The Refuge Ranch in Bastrop, which serves females ages 14-19, said they fired the employee after the allegations came to light on Jan. 24, and “immediately” alerted the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office and the state Department of Family and Protective Services.
An investigation has since revealed more victims who alleged they were trafficked by the same ex-employee, and that others who remained employed by the facility appeared to be involved as well, according to a court document obtained by Austin TV station KXAN.
In an emergency court hearing Thursday called by U.S. District Court Judge Janis Jack, nine perpetrators were alleged to have victimized seven children, ages 11-17, who remained in the facility for over a month after the claims were first reported, according to the Texas Tribune.
One staff member of The Refuge Ranch, who was not identified, has been arrested, KXAN reports.
Hellbound and Down 