Teen jailed for human trafficking, prostitution of a minor

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A teenager is in jail charged with human trafficking.

A judge granted Drequan Argu Dugar, 19, a public defender during his first court appearance this afternoon.

The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office says “A Safe Place,” a hotline to help identify victims of sexual exploitation in the area, contacted detectives Friday. They identified a minor listed on an internet website advertisement for “adult services.”

According to a news release, after a four-day investigation detectives arrested Dugar on four felony charges, including human trafficking, prostitution and promoting prostitution of a minor.

Investigators say Dugar is a validated gang member. He is in the New Hanover County Jail under $3 million bond.

The NC Department of Corrections website shows Dugar has served more than a year in prison for crimes including breaking and entering and drug possession. He also has a pending larceny charge in Brunswick County, according to court records.