A disturbing case of sex trafficking has led to the imprisonment of Deran Adkins, a 26-year-old who has been labeled a ‘modern day slave trader.’ He received a sentence of 28 years and eight months for trafficking two teenage girls, aged 17 and 19, along the infamous Figueroa Corridor in Los Angeles, as confirmed by the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.
It’s reported that Adkins coerced the 17-year-old into sex trafficking in November 2024, primarily through social media. When the girl attempted to escape or resisted his directives, she faced brutal assaults, including a horrific incident where Adkins severed her hand.
The older victim, 19, was involved in sex work from April 2024 to January 2025. According to authorities, she endured physical attacks whenever she defied him, which involved being punched, burned with hot metal spoons, and even whipped with hangers.
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman remarked on the case, emphasizing the relentless work by prosecutors and the LAPD that removed a violent trafficker from the streets. He noted the grievous actions of traffickers who target the vulnerable, particularly minors.
On February 11, Adkins pleaded guilty to one count of felony human trafficking involving an adult and another for trafficking a minor for commercial sexual acts; both charges are considered violent felonies. His sentencing occurred two days later, during which prosecutors revealed that he acknowledged causing “significant bodily injury” to both victims during the assaults.
Hochman further highlighted the severe ramifications that await sex traffickers under his administration, indicating that those who exploit young victims will face prosecution. He warned those involved in sex trafficking in Los Angeles County that their turn is coming.
He also pointed out that sex trafficking is a multibillion-dollar exploitative industry that must be curtailed from both the supply side and the demand side. His office collaborates with law enforcement not only in prosecuting traffickers but also targeting the buyers who perpetuate the cycle of exploitation. Efforts aim to ultimately dismantle the trafficking operations.
If Adkins is ever released, he will remain on the sex offender registry for life.
