HomeMy WebLinkAbout13_10_31 Human Trafficking Case 13-159967
BAKERSFIELD POLICE
DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Greg Williamson, Chief of Police
Contact: Michaela Sims
Public Information Office
661-326-3803
msims@bakersfieldpd.us
For Immediate Release October 31, 2013
The Bakersfield Police Department is currently investigating a case involving victims of
human trafficking.
On October 31, 2013, at approximately 12:23 a.m., Bakersfield Police Officers
conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 800 block of Union Avenue. Preliminary
investigation revealed the two female occupants, one of whom is a minor, were involved
in prostitution activity. Detectives from the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit
responded and assumed the investigation.
The investigation led to the arrest of Donte Ford, 22, of Fresno, and Joseph Packard, 20
of Fresno. Ford was arrested for human trafficking, sexual exploitation of a child,
distribution of child pornography, possession of child pornography, participation in a
criminal street gang, conspiracy and a parole violation. Packard was arrested for
human trafficking, providing false information to a police officer, conspiracy and
participation in a criminal street gang. Bail has been set at $500,000 for each suspect.
The investigation is continuing.
Anyone with any information regarding this case is urged to contact Bakersfield Police
at (661) 327-7111 or Detective Cegielski at (661) 326-3556.
You can now send an anonymous text message to the Bakersfield Police Department. It’s quick and it’s easy.
Simply enter 274637 into your phone and text BPDCRIMES along with your message. The text is sent to the
police department and the sender remains completely anonymous.
Tips can also be anonymously sent through the smartphone “TipSubmit” mobile App or via email at
https://www.tipsubmit.com.