Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton announced today that the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office has secured human trafficking convictions in the trial of Richmond resident, Jerry Likaerie Graham.
“The diligent pursuit of justice in this case has removed a dangerous, repeat offender who preys upon young, vulnerable women from our community,” said District Attorney Diana Becton. “The outcome of the case is also empowering to the survivors by providing them with a foundation of justice upon which to continue their healing.”
On Tuesday, November 22, a Contra Costa jury convicted 37-year-old Graham of sex trafficking of a minor, sex trafficking of an adult, forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, pandering, and felon in possession of a firearm. The jury also found true an enhancement for a prior conviction for forced oral copulation. Graham, on parole for a prior conviction for human trafficking in Oakland at the time he committed these crimes, has an extensive criminal history involving both adult and juvenile victims.
The Richmond Police Department was alerted by ankle monitor data in November 2021 that Graham was engaged in suspicious activities in an area of the city known for commercial sexual activity and at west county budget motels.
A thorough investigation was initiated by Richmond Police in collaboration with partners of the Contra Costa Human Trafficking Task Force, including DA investigators and prosecutors and specialized human trafficking advocates working with the office’s Victim-Witness Assistance Program, Community Violence Solutions, and International Rescue Committee. Their collaborative efforts led to the charges and ultimate conviction against Graham as well as the opportunity to provide support and services to several of his victims – one of whom was a 15-year-old girl.
“This case serves as a model of how law enforcement and community partners can come together to hold human traffickers accountable, to support survivors in seeking justice and healing, and to build safer communities for all” noted Task Force Director, Katrina Natale.
Graham is expected to return to court for sentencing in February 2023 and faces a minimum of 25 years to life in prison.
1 comment
if this guy was a “…dangerous, repeat offender…”
why in the H-E–Double-Tooth-Picks was he even out and about in the first place?
yeah, i know the answer…
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