Freeway Dump: Man Gets 5 Years for Trafficking Boy

Brandon Holguin, 27, has been sentenced to five years in state prison for his involvement in human trafficking. He was convicted of charges including human trafficking for labor, child abuse, and furnishing a controlled substance to a minor.

Prosecutors stated that Holguin befriended the 14-year-old victim, promising assistance. He then abducted the boy, took his phone and family jewelry to prevent contact and raise money. The victim was forced to sort and photograph clothing for Holguin's online resale business, reportedly given Adderall to work through the night.

Three days after the abduction, Holguin abandoned the teen on a Los Angeles freeway when a separate trafficking plan failed. The boy managed to reach safety and was reunited with his family three days after being reported missing. District Attorney Nathan Hochman emphasized that this case exemplifies the exploitation of vulnerable children by predators.