Man accused of forcing women into prostitution in Lewiston; police say more victims likely

LEWISTON, Maine (WMTW) – Lewiston police arrested a man Friday they said has been forcing women into prostitution or forcing them to continue engaging in prostitution.

Frederick Jackson, 57, was charged with aggravated sex trafficking, which under Maine law is a Class B felony.

Jackson was already on probation and was being held at the Androscoggin County Jail. Police said he was also facing other charges. Those charges include domestic violence aggravated assault (B), domestic violence aggravated assault (C), domestic violence criminal threatening (C), domestic violence stalking (C), and aggravated assault (B).

All of these charges are felonies.

According to the affidavit obtained by our media partners, WMTW, Jackson forced a woman he met six months ago to engage in sex acts every day unless there were no customers.

The woman allegedly performed around three “dates” or sex acts a night and made roughly $100 per date.

According to the affidavit, Jackson took all of the money she made.

The woman said Jackson assaulted and strangled her and also threatened to hurt her if she did not engage in sex acts.

Police said Friday they think there may be more victims they have not yet identified and were asking anyone with information to contact the Lewiston Police Department, Task Force Officer Josh King, at 207-513-3001 Ext 6302 or at [email protected].

If you or someone you know is a victim of sex trafficking but don’t feel comfortable reaching out to the police, there are other ways to get help.

According to the affidavit, a group supporting survivors helped the victim in this case, contacted police, and found a safe space for her to share her experience. Safe Voices is just one group that can help. Their 24/7 helpline is 1-800-559-2927.

“Any sex trafficking arrest in our community is a reminder that this issue is affecting our neighbors every day,” said a Safe Voices spokesperson in a statement. “Trafficking happens in every county of our state, and the effects on survivors are real and long-lasting. Many survivors of trafficking were exploited by someone they know and love, adding another layer of betrayal to their victimization.”

Safe Voices also said help is available from nonjudgmental and safe advocates.

This case may not be as rare as you’d think. According to Safe Voices, there are roughly 400 people experiencing sex trafficking in Maine each year.

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