He’s going to prison for a long time.
A Searcy man, Thomas Ray Kelso, 74, has been sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for sex trafficking and drug charges. He reportedly exploited women that were renting from his apartment complex. The news was announced by United States’ Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Arkansas.
Searcy Man Sentenced To 20 Long Years
Kelso was indicted in August 2023 for distributing methamphetamine and exploiting female residents at his apartment complex.
Evidence showed Kelso forced women into inappropriate acts in exchange for basic necessities like electricity and rent.
After a two-day trial in August 2024, Kelso was found guilty on all charges, including three counts of sex trafficking. The sentence was handed down by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.
Judge James M. Moody, Jr. also ordered Kelso to pay $100,000 in fines and restitution, with no possibility of parole.
