Police allege Roshaun "Kevin" Nakia Porter, 36, met at least five beautiful women online through websites like Craigslist and SeekingArrangements.com.
"He's very charismatic. He would treat and wine and dine these females into what they believed was a monogamous relationship," said Santa Ana Police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna.
Most of the women are in their 20s and low income, according to a criminal complaint. One victim, identified as Jane Doe No. 2, was from Bulgaria and attended National University. She allegedly dated the suspect for several months before he suggested she become an escort starting in May 2010.
The victims also say they had no means of supporting themselves, so they lived and worked in hotels throughout Orange County while working for Porter.
Bertagna said the victims were paid $100 for the first 15 minutes, and if the client wanted an hour, it cost up to $300.
"For every $500, he would take $450 of it," Bertagna said.
Documents allege Porter forced Jane Doe No. 2 to stay at a Santa Ana motel, selling herself to men for 20 days straight. When she tried to leave, like the other victims, investigators suspect Porter used physical force, threats and intimidation.
"He would have pictures of them, nude photographs of them. He would threaten to send them to families. He would threaten to kill their families, so basically, he was controlling their lives," Bertagna said.
The alleged prostitution ring was discovered by Santa Ana police during a sting last month at a Santa Ana hotel. Investigators say the alleged victims were not involved in the sex trade before meeting Porter online.
Porter was indicted by a federal grand jury and is expected to go to trial June 19. If convicted, he faces life in prison.
Authorities believe Porter may have additional victims. Anyone who believes they have been victimized by Porter or has any information about victims can call the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8501, or the FBI at (310) 477-6565.
