Teen, 5 others forced into prostitution

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Detrick Lavelle Johnson was arrested on charges of forcing a teen and five other females into prostitution, according to the Austin Police Department.

A 17-year-old girl flagged down police officers responding to a domestic distrubance call Sunday at the Hawthorne Suites hotel at 935 La Posada Dr. in North Austin.

She reportedly told them she and a number of other females were being forced into prostitution. The teen told police that after knowing Johnson for only six days, she and another female were coached and forced into that lifestyle.

Johnson allegedly made the females give their earnings to him and beat them if they refused.

Police officials also said Johnson wanted the females to act like a family and would not allow any to eat if they refused until they "acted like a family."

The teen told police she had only eaten three meals within the last week.

Court documents said none of the victims were allowed to leave the hotel room unless they were on a prostitution deal. Johnson also allegedly slept in front of the hotel room door to keep the females inside.

Police said Johnson posted nude pictures of the teen girl in efforts to solicit her.

Johnson is charged with compelling prostitution, a second-degree felony. His bond is set at $150,000.