Steven Terrell Lewis, a resident of El Cajon, was found guilty by a federal jury on charges related to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, as well as attempted sex trafficking by force or coercion involving an adult. The case involved a 14-year-old high school student and a 22-year-old woman.
The trial revealed that on April 22, 2024, Lewis approached the teenage victim in El Cajon while she was walking to a friend's house. He used his vehicle to trap her on the sidewalk and took her cellphone to obtain her number. Subsequently, he sent explicit messages from two different phone numbers before the victim blocked him. After identifying himself as "Pimpin" and sending inappropriate content, the teenager reported the incident to her high school coach, prompting responses from local law enforcement.
Lewis's attempt to recruit the minor failed, but he then targeted a 22-year-old woman through MegaPersonals on April 28, 2024. He arranged for transportation to take her to National City for prostitution. However, she encountered an undercover officer who offered assistance to leave prostitution. Despite this intervention, Lewis continued sending threatening messages.
Authorities conducted surveillance on Lewis and arrested him on May 16, 2024. Investigators suspect there may be more victims after discovering evidence suggesting further potential incidents.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon stated: “The jury’s guilty verdicts are a powerful reminder that human trafficking has no place in our society." Shawn Gibson from Homeland Security Investigations highlighted cooperation among agencies in achieving justice: “This outcome is the result of relentless cooperation among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies."
Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized commitment against human trafficking: “At the California Department of Justice, we’re committed to standing up for survivors...and securing justice.” San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl stressed collaboration: “This case highlights the importance of collaboration...to bring suspects like this into custody.”
Lewis will be sentenced on August 1, 2025. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lyndzie M. Carter and Derek Ko are prosecuting the case.
