BAKERSFIELD, CA – On Monday, January 18, 2021, officers from the Bakersfield Police Department were alerted to the possible human trafficking of a 17-year old victim within the City of Bakersfield. Detectives were able to identify two suspects involved the incident and obtain warrants for their arrests.
On Tuesday, January 19, 2021, Bakersfield Police Detectives located and arrested Melton Smith, (31), of Bakersfield, and Aleahah Wheeler, (22), of Lompoc. Smith and Wheeler were booked into the Kern County Jail for Human Trafficking, Pimping of a Minor, Pandering of a Minor, multiple Sexual Assaults of a Minor, False Imprisonment, Terrorist Threats & Conspiracy.
The victim has been reunited with family members.
This investigation is separate and unrelated to yesterday’s release regarding the arrest of Javonna Lewis (22) of Fresno.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Detective J. Montgomery at (661) 326-3870 or the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111.
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.