Human Trafficking investigation leads to an arrest.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

The Daytona Beach Police Department's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) announced the arrest of Derick Jones Sr. on January 24th, 2023, for multiple charges related to human trafficking. The arrest came after several proactive operations conducted by SIU in December 2022 aimed at rescuing victims of human trafficking and building a case against Jones.

Investigators identified three victims of human trafficking, each of whom stated that Jones forced them to commit prostitution and to bring the proceeds of the prostitution back to Jones. If they didn't comply, Jones would physically beat them.

According to a release, a search warrant was approved for Derick Jones' residence and executed by the Daytona Beach Police Department SWAT team and Special Investigations Unit. Derick Jones SR was taken into custody for Armed Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Methamphetamine with intent to sell, Possession of Firearm and Ammunition by a convicted felon, Possession of Stun Gun by a convicted felon, and Possession of Cannabis under 20 grams. Approximately 23.2 grams of fentanyl, 6.7 grams of methamphetamine, and 1.1 grams of cannabis were seized. Detectives also located evidence of human trafficking and prostitution inside the hotel room.

Jones was charged with Conspiracy to Commit Human Trafficking, Deriving Support from Proceeds of Prostitution, Unlawful use of a two-way communication device, and Aggravated Battery. He is in custody with no bond at the Volusia County Branch Jail.

The Daytona Beach Police Department would like to thank the State Attorney's Office for assisting with the investigation and Victim Advocates Tammy Worden and Courtney Fraine for helping the Special Investigations Unit. January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month; the Daytona Beach Police Department wants the community to know that it takes human trafficking seriously and will utilize every resource available to identify and arrest those responsible for this type of crime.

Anyone with information on human trafficking or anyone who has been a victim of human trafficking should contact the DBPD Special Investigations Unit at 386-671-5260.