The Bakersfield Police Department announced they have arrested Javonna Lewis (22) of Fresno for torture, kidnap, human trafficking with force, human trafficking of a minor, pandering of a minor, and penetration with a foreign object with force.
On December 23, 2020, BPD was alerted to the possible human trafficking of a 17-year old victim. Detectives were able to identify Lewis and obtained a warrant for her arrest.
The victim was safely recovered and has been reunited with family members.
On January 15, 2021, BPD with the assistance of the Fresno MAGEC (Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium) arrested Lewis and she was booked into the Kern County Jail.
BPD says the investigation is on-going and detectives are working to identify all suspects involved.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111.
Lewis pled "not guilty" today in her court arraignment and will be back in court on Feb. 18th.
Her bail was set at 1.37 million.
January 2021 has been proclaimed National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The Bakersfield Police Department joins with law enforcement partners around the nation to bring awareness to, and eradicate the indignities created by these disturbing acts, and to pursue all who victimize those they prey upon. The public is encouraged to stand against human trafficking and report any suspected related activity to law enforcement.