More than a dozen charged after human trafficking ring bust in New Jersey

TRENTON, N.J. (WPVI) -- Authorities in New Jersey say 13 people have been charged in connection with a human trafficking operation spanning Camden, Burlington, Middlesex and Ocean counties.

Investigators allege two South Jersey men led a highly organized scheme that exploited women.

Following a year-long investigation, search warrants were executed May 7 at multiple homes, vehicles and three motels along a four-mile stretch of Route 73 - the Riviera Motor Inn in Pennsauken, and the Bel-Air Motor Lodge and Hometown Studios in Maple Shade.

On Friday morning, New Jersey's Attorney General identified the alleged leaders as Nathaniel Clay of Mount Laurel and Shalaby Hicks of Pennsauken.

Officials say both men are in custody and face the possibility of life in prison if convicted of the most serious charges.

According to investigators, at least 15 women have come forward so far, all adults between the ages of 29 and 52.

"According to filed court documents, they allegedly controlled women, profited from their exploitation and maintained that control through financial dependence, manipulation and the distribution of dangerous controlled substances," said Theresa Hilton, director of the Division of Criminal Justice.

Authorities allege the two men paid for the victims' lodging, food, transportation and drugs, while requiring them to engage in prostitution.

Prosecutors say the victims were also expected to provide drugs to clients, including methamphetamine, fentanyl and crack cocaine.

Law enforcement activity at one of the motels drew attention during the arrests.

"There was like 20 or 30 police officers - state police was here," said Venktesh Shah, manager of Hometown Studios. "I came outside and they didn't tell me anything. They said just go back to the office."

Shah said he was unaware of any illegal activity and that the business cooperated fully with authorities.

Officials say the case highlights ongoing concerns about human trafficking, particularly as large international events approach.

With the FIFA World Cup drawing closer, authorities say they are expanding efforts to combat trafficking.

"When there's visitors and spectators, people coming together for sporting events or other activities, you will also see that people try to profit off of that activity, with any type of criminal activity. Here with human trafficking, you have many people coming from around the globe, which adds to that," Davenport said.

Authorities believe additional victims may still be out there and are urging them to come forward. New Jersey's human trafficking hotline is 855-363-6548.