Louisville Man Arrested After Police Say He Trafficked Children and Drugs Across Two Counties
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — A 46-year-old Louisville man has been arrested and charged with child trafficking, rape, and drug trafficking following a months-long investigation that uncovered disturbing evidence of exploitation across Bullitt and Jefferson counties, authorities said.
According to the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, Gerald “Jerry” Hodges was taken into custody late Thursday, October 23, with help from the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Fugitive Unit. Investigators allege Hodges was involved in both human trafficking of minors and illegal drug operations spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Investigation Reveals Child Trafficking and Drug Activity
Detectives with the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) said they found credible evidence linking Hodges to child trafficking activities involving victims under the age of 18, as well as the distribution of marijuana.
Court documents detail multiple charges, including:
- Human Trafficking Victim Under 18 (2 counts)
- Rape in the 3rd Degree (2 counts)
- Sodomy in the 3rd Degree (2 counts)
- Trafficking in Marijuana (Enhanced)
Hodges was booked into the Bullitt County Detention Center shortly before midnight Thursday and remains in custody pending further hearings.
Officials Seek Additional Victims
Authorities believe other victims may still be out there. The Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information to come forward and speak with detectives to assist in expanding the case.
In a statement, officials expressed gratitude to the LMPD Fugitive Unit, Louisville Metro Police’s Eighth Division CID, and Lori Dobson of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Special Investigations Team for their “critical assistance and coordination” in the investigation.
As the investigation into child trafficking in Kentucky continues, law enforcement agencies are emphasizing community cooperation to help bring more victims to safety. For ongoing coverage of public safety and community updates across Kentucky, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.