NJ AG Seeks Public Assistance in Locating Fugitive Charged with Human Trafficking

NEW JERSEY – The New Jersey Attorney General's Office is reaching out to the public for help in the search for Kurt Young, a 56-year-old retired corrections officer and fugitive, who failed to appear for his criminal trial on serious human trafficking charges. This appeal for assistance underscores the gravity of the charges and the importance of bringing Young to justice.

Kurt Young, along with co-defendants Derek V. Ross, 30, of Atlantic City, and Tiffany N. Davis, 43, of Egg Harbor Township, was indicted by a state grand jury on October 20, 2020, following a meticulous investigation led by the Division of Criminal Justice and the New Jersey State Police’s Casino Gaming Bureau. This operation received significant support from the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, highlighting the collaborative effort to combat human trafficking.

The investigation unveiled a distressing case of human trafficking and sexual abuse involving a 14-year-old victim. According to the findings, Ross and Davis trafficked and sexually exploited the minor, while Young allegedly facilitated these crimes by arranging for the victim to be brought to his residence in Dennis Township, Cape May County, for sexual purposes.

The legal proceedings saw Ross and Davis pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit human trafficking (1st degree) and facilitating human trafficking (2nd degree). Ross received a 20-year state prison sentence and a $15,000 fine on August 30, 2023. Davis was sentenced to 15 years in state prison on November 1, 2023.

Young was scheduled to stand trial in September 2023 on multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit human trafficking (1st degree), engaging in prostitution with a child (2nd degree), sexual assault (2nd degree), and endangering the welfare of a child (3rd degree). However, his failure to appear during jury selection led to the issuance of a bench warrant for his arrest.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the critical nature of combating human trafficking, stating, “The investigation and prosecution of human trafficking is a priority mission, as this crime leaves a devastating impact on its victims, which are often the most vulnerable members of our community.” 

AG Platkin encouraged individuals with relevant information or concerns to contact the confidential hotline at 855-END-NJ-HT.

J. Stephen Ferketic, Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, reaffirmed the division's commitment to investigating human trafficking and pursuing those responsible for such crimes relentlessly.

The public is urged to contribute any information regarding Kurt Young's whereabouts by contacting 1-877-WANTED-2. The U.S. Marshals are offering a cash reward for information directly leading to Young's arrest, reflecting the seriousness with which this case is being treated.

The prosecution of this case is being managed by Deputy Attorney General Elizabeth Vogelsong Parvin, under the supervision of Deputy Director Theresa L. Hilton, showcasing the Attorney General's Office's dedication to addressing human trafficking and protecting the community's most vulnerable.

It is important to remember that charges are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.