Hynes announces 18-year sentence in sex trafficking case

October 17, 2012 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

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Kings County District Attorney Charles J. Hynes on Tuesday announced the sentencing of sex trafficker Kendale “Ace” Judge, 21, to six to 18 years in prison, for forcing a 13-year-old girl into prostitution.

Judge pleaded guilty to Sex Trafficking on Sept. 27. In addition to his prison term, when he is released, he will have to register as a sex offender.

In September 2011, Judge, 22, met a 13-year-old runaway. He gained her trust by promising to love and take care of her, but instead beat her and forced her into prostitution, and advertised her services with photographs posted on the website, Backpage.com, which is similar to Craigslist.

When she tried to escape, he tracked her down and beat her and threw her down a flight of stairs. An accomplice, Shanique Davis, 21, aided Judge, by photographing the girl and helping to keep her captive.

Davis was also scheduled for sentencing on Tuesday, on the charge of promoting prostitution in the third degree. She was expected to receive five years probation.

The Kings County DA’s Office has a specialized division, the Sex Trafficking Unit, uniquely equipped to handle these specific crimes and Hynes has expressed concern regarding the prevalence of sex trafficking crimes.

In a February 2012 “Ask the DA” column, Hynes informed Brooklyn Daily Eagle readers that “sadly, sex trafficking can happen anywhere including right here in [Brooklyn]. The DA’s specialized group of prosecutors work to raise awareness about sex trafficking and its potential signs, and also provides comprehensive services to victims.

“Educating the public and warning parents about potential predators is an important step,” in ending sex trafficking, Hynes noted.

Legislative Focus in Albany

Until this horrific practice can be brought to an end, the New York State Assembly is focusing on addressing the adequacy of social services available to victims of human trafficking, including victims of sex trafficking offenses.

Early in October 2012, the Standing Committee on Codes, Committee on Social Services and Committee on Oversight, Analysis and Investigation hosted a roundtable discussion to identify any gaps or roadblocks that may exist in access to such services.

“New York has the opportunity to bridge a gap in the services that are available to victims of human trafficking. We must lead by example and take the necessary steps to ensure these vulnerable victims are cared for,” said Brooklyn Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol.

“By bringing together experts on the issue in a roundtable discussion, we can find proactive solutions to caring for and preventing this horrible form of abuse. It is about time the government provides the necessary services and support for the exploited victims of human trafficking,” he said.