ORLANDO, Fla. — A Central Florida attorney is in custody after authorities accused him of trafficking a minor and operating a prostitution ring out of his home, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced Monday.
- Attorney accused of trafficking teen, exchanging services for sex
- Investigators allege he also ran a prostitution ring out of his home
- AG Ashley Moody's office will prosecute the case
John Gillespie, 71, of Melbourne, is facing several charges, including human trafficking of a minor and exchanging legal representation for sex with teens as young as 15 years old, a press release from AG Moody’s office detailed.
According to an investigation launched by the Orlando Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, Gillespie allegedly operated a prostitution ring out of his home in Melbourne.
He was recently arrested in Orange County after reportedly traveling from Brevard County to have sex with a 16-year-old for $100. Authorities also allege he intended to “recruit” the teen to with him in his Melbourne home.
Detectives also say Gillespie posted ads of several girls who lived in and outside his home on an escort website. He allegedly held leverage over them by keeping them in debt for responsibilities such as legal fees and rent.
Along with the human trafficking charge, Gillespie is also facing the following charges: racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will prosecute the case.