A recidivist sex offender was indicted on June 25 in connection with sex trafficking crimes involving two child victims, following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations Maryland and the Baltimore City Police Department, according to a July 14 announcement. Lorenzo Turner, 43, of Washington D.C., faces charges including two counts of sex trafficking a child, two counts of transporting a child with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and commission of a felony crime involving a child by a registered sex offender.
“This indictment underscores HSI Maryland’s unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children from exploitation,” said HSI Maryland Deputy Special Agent in Charge Evan Campanella. “The allegations against Turner are deeply disturbing, and we will use every available resource to ensure that those who prey on minors and traffic children for commercial sex acts are brought to justice. We remain steadfast in our efforts to work with our state and local partners to safeguard our communities and support victims and their families.”
According to the indictment, Turner allegedly recruited, enticed, harbored, and transported one child victim for commercial sex acts beginning in May 2024 through July 2024. The indictment further alleges that Turner engaged in the sex trafficking of a second child between July 2024 and August 2024.
If convicted, Turner faces mandatory minimum sentences: at least 15 years up to life imprisonment for each count of sex trafficking a child through force, fraud or coercion; at least 10 years up to life for each count of transporting a child with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity; plus an additional mandatory consecutive sentence of 10 years for committing a felony crime involving a child as a registered sex offender.
Authorities emphasize that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at trial.