Three Omaha residents have been sentenced on federal charges for their roles in an interstate sex trafficking ring. Authorities say 39-year-old Parrish Casebier was leader of the prostitution operation and committed acts of physical and sexual abuse.
His girlfriend, 41-year-old Cheryl Tucker managed the operation. Also, 26-year-old Kentrell Vertner helped with posting internet solicitations and transported the prostitutes.
Casebier is sentenced to 25 years in prison, Tucker got 10 years, while Vertner was sentenced to 18 months. The investigation started in June of 2010 after police responded to an alleged kidnapping at a motel in Council Bluffs.
Several women were eventually rescued. One claimed Casebier lured her from a homeless shelter with the promise of help but forced her into the role of prostitute.