Police Department

Sex Trafficking Suspect in Custody

Ofc. Daniel Strassenberg, PIO

Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 3:45 p.m.

Months long investigation involving multiple agencies results in an arrest of local man for several charges to include sex trafficking and 1st Degree Rape.

On July 30th, 2025 members of SPD’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) took Taurean D. Jones (38) into custody for a multitude of charges stemming from an investigation into sexual assault and sex trafficking. The investigation began in January of this year after detectives with SIU received a report from the State of Idaho regarding an allegation of sex trafficking involving a young juvenile teenager.

As detectives began the investigation, it became clear that Jones had arranged to pay the victim in exchange for sex not only for himself, but for others as well. Multiple agencies assisted in the investigation including the FBI as work began in earnest to uncover everything that happened.

The investigation uncovered evidence Jones provided drugs and alcohol to coerce sex acts from the victim. At times the acts were forced by the threat of a firearm and physical force. Interaction with Jones and the victim went on for months. The investigation led detectives to a local business where statements alleged some of the sex acts occurred with the victim.

Detectives located a second victim as the investigation continued. After taking Jones into custody, detectives served multiple search warrants on a vehicle owned by Jones and the associated business downtown. A loaded firearm and cocaine were found in Jones’ vehicle when the search warrant was executed. The firearm was listed as stolen when detectives checked the serial number.

Jones was booked into the Spokane County Jail on multiple charges to include Promoting Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor, 1st Degree Rape, 2nd Degree Rape, 3rd Degree Rape of a Child, Possession of a Controlled Substance- Distribution to a Minor, 1st Degree Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Indecent Exposure and Possession of Stolen Firearm.

The months long endeavor by all the involved agencies and the resulting charges brought justice for the victims in this terrible ordeal. Counselors and child advocacy groups are actively working with the victim in this case. If you or someone you know are being trafficked, there is help. Visit the National Human Trafficking Hotline website for assistance or call 1.888.373.8888.

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