Judge sentences Milwaukee man to 45 years' imprisonment for sex trafficking

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A Milwaukee man is facing 45 years' imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, after being convicted of 14 federal crimes. 

Calvin Freeman Jr. was convicted of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, interstate transportation for prostitution, interstate transportation of a minor for criminal sexual activity, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, as well as obstruction and contempt of court, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

In announcing the sentence, Chief United States District Judge Pamela Pepper cited many examples of violence that Freeman inflicted on his victims, including slamming a victim into a bathtub, putting a cigarette out on a victim's face, beating a victim with an iron and forcing a victim to continue walking the street looking for prostitution dates immediately after she had been violently raped and robbed.

Judge Pepper also described Freeman's pattern of beating his victims with a belt, leaving an imprint on their bodies.

She described Freeman's conduct as "the most heinous" example of sex trafficking she had ever seen in her career.

"The 45-year sentence reflects Mr. Freeman's relentless criminal activity and his willingness to abuse and dehumanize others for his own financial benefit," said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Frohling. "Mr. Freeman's conviction and sentence were the direct result of the courage and resilience shown by his victims in agreeing to testify to the abuse they suffered at his hands. Today's sentence stems from their resolve and from the extraordinary efforts of law enforcement and the prosecution team in this case."

"Let this 45-year prison sentence send a strong message to those who prey on victims of sex trafficking using violence and manipulation," said SAC Hughes. "The FBI will utilize all resources available to bring violent offenders to justice and provide help for victims through our Victim Assistance Program."