A Connecticut woman was arrested for attempted human trafficking after two minors were reportedly found with her inside a hotel room amid a missing juvenile case.
The Meriden Police Department launched an investigation into the matter after they received a report of a missing juvenile on July 12, according to WTNH. One day after they learned of the missing juvenile, police officers found two underage girls with suspect Janesleon Colon-Santana inside of a hotel room on July 13. Police added that the hotel was advertised online as a place for commercial sexual services.
The officers reported that one of the juveniles was partially unclothed when they found the girls. It’s not currently clear how young the victims were or how they came into contact with Colon-Santana, 24.
After the juveniles were located, Colon-Santana was arrested and charged with two counts of risk of injury to a child, criminal attempt to commit human trafficking in persons, criminal attempt to commit commercial sexual abuse of a minor, first-degree promoting prostitution and sale of narcotics.
Colon-Santana was initially held in custody on a $1 million bond. However, the court later reduced her bond to $750,000 and she was released pending further court proceedings after she posted the bond.
The police department said that the investigation into the case remains active ahead of her upcoming court date on August 7.
“Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of one of these crimes or has any information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Meriden Police Department Detective Division,” the department wrote in a statement about the situation, according to Patch.
In addition to asking for help from the public, the police department also insisted they were determined to help those who are vulnerable.
“The Meriden Police Department remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and holding those who exploit vulnerable individuals accountable. Human trafficking often targets the most vulnerable members of our community, and we encourage anyone with information or concerns to come forward,” the department said. “Through proactive investigations and strong partnerships with our community, we will continue working tirelessly to identify victims, pursue offenders, and ensure the safety of our children.”
It is not currently clear if Colon-Santana has entered a plea or retained legal counsel following her arrest. The Meriden Police Department did not immediately respond to Us’ request for comment regarding the case.
Parents, teachers, and guardians interested in learning more about protecting children from exploitation can find useful tools and information at Know2Protect.
