John Willoughby: reporter2@greenepublishing.com
A Greenville man has been arrested and charged with human trafficking in Lowndes County after investigators were told by two female victims they were held against their will. The Lowndes County Sheriff's Office's (LCSO) Special Operations Division arrested Javarice Raydale Ware on Wednesday, March 4, 2020.
In a statement issued by LCSO officials, investigators conducted surveillance of Ware at a motel in Lowndes County, where they identified two females in a vehicle speaking to Ware. Ware was observed directing a victim to a motel room for a sexual act.
Upon interviewing the victims, it was revealed that Ware allegedly transported two females across state lines for the purpose of engaging in commercial sexual acts. The female victims informed investigators they had been held against their will and had been threatened with a knife on Wednesday, March 4, the same day of the arrest, to compel them to perform sexual acts and distribute illegal drugs for Ware's financial benefit.
Ware was arrested and the aforementioned described knife was found hidden on his person. Other items linking him to the crimes were also discovered.
The female victims were aided through a local specialized agency that helps victims of trauma related to these crimes, according to LCSO. The female victims have identified a pattern of abuse, typical in crimes such as these, that they have suffered.
Ware is charged with human trafficking, specifically the trafficking of person for labor or sexual servitude; as well as a number of drug charges. He is currently being held at the Lowndes County Jail.