Houston Man Accused of Human Trafficking Wanted by FBI - KIAH

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Mayra Moreno KIAH

January 12, 2010

[TRAFFICKING MONITOR: Follow URL to view the related video
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HOUSTON - When you think of the word "slavery" you may think of an ugly period in our nation's past but authorities believe it's a problem that is present today in Houston. The FBI needs help catching a local kingpin accused of this modern day slavery.

Human trafficking, which is different from human smuggling, forces victims into prostitution through coercion. Most people think victims are held captive in a room with chains but the FBI said the lock and key is in the victim's mind.

Human Trafficking is a television mini series that premiered on Lifetime. It depicts the struggles of three trafficked women. In real life, the issue is very much a problem and it could be happening right under our noses.

A man called Gerardo Salazar who goes by the name "The Rooster" is one of Houston's most wanted human trafficking fugitives. Salazar has been on the run for years.

FBI officials said he's recruited and enticed young Mexican women. He's allegedly engaged them in prostitution and often times beats and threatens them.

"They're treated not as human beings but as commodities," said Edward F. Gallagher, assistant to the U.S. attorney. "Salazar is a family-type operation."

FBI officials said its modern day slavery. The Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance, known as HTRA, has been working with local organizations like the YMCA to identify and help victims but the main goal is to go after people like Salazar.

"Human trafficking is evil and we will continue to go after those traffickers and put them in prison," said Gallagher.

A number of victims have been rescued in the city of Houston alone. In fact, Houston is one of five preferred by human traffickers. The FBI said it's because of Houston's proximity to the Mexican border and its ethnic diversity. HTRA is hoping to tackle trafficking issues not only internationally but locally.

Billboards showcasing human trafficking will be going up across the city. Officials want to rescue more victims and finally catch Salazar.

The FBI and Crime Stoppers is offering a fifteen thousand dollar reward to anyone who may lead police to Salazar. You can call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS or the FBI local office at 713-693-5000.


Houston Man Accused of Human Trafficking Wanted by FBI - KIAH

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