Eight Charged with Racketeering and Human Trafficking in Prostitution Ring

Alleged network leaders operated multiple brothels disguised as businesses, with women reportedly coerced into sex work under threats and false promises

TRENTON, N.J. – Eight individuals have been charged with first-degree racketeering and human trafficking following a state-led investigation into a prostitution ring that allegedly operated brothels in Trenton and Camden, according to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ).

Vilma Deleon Bracamonte, also known as “Janet,” of Hamilton, and Maria Soledad Xec Chan of Trenton are accused of leading the enterprise. According to investigators, the two women lured victims to houses under the false pretense of offering employment as cleaners or restaurant workers. Once inside, victims were allegedly coerced into performing sex acts, sometimes under threats of harm to their families.

The organization is said to have used several properties in Trenton—on Ashmore Avenue, Elmer Street, Roebling Avenue, and Genesee Street—as well as a location on Leonard Street in Camden. Investigators report that business cards advertising fake barbershop and plumbing services were distributed as fronts for the brothels. Men allegedly paid $50 for 15-minute sex sessions, with victims receiving half.

Santiago Miranda-Gomez and Francisco Macariosut, both of Trenton, are described as “inspectors” for the operation, allegedly responsible for collecting money, supplying the brothels, and intimidating workers. House managers charged in the case include Abel Aguilera-Ronquillo, Julio C. Delgado-Belmeo (both of Trenton), and Flavio R. Navarrete-Reyes and Wilmer E. Pinargote-Chimbiligua (both of Camden), who are accused of overseeing day-to-day activities.

“Human trafficking organizations like the one described in these complaints exploit vulnerable individuals and rob them of their freedom, dignity and basic human rights,” said Attorney General Platkin. “My office has made it a priority to find these networks, dismantle them, and punish those who would profit from this misery.”

On June 25, 2025, coordinated search warrants executed across five locations uncovered evidence of commercial sex activities. Fifteen victims were found, fourteen of whom confirmed being engaged in prostitution. Several recounted how they had been tricked or threatened into participating.

All eight defendants face first-degree charges of racketeering and human trafficking, with Bracamonte and Xec Chan also facing leader-specific charges. If convicted, they face between 10 to 20 years in state prison under the No Early Release Act and fines up to $500,000.

The investigation was led by DCJ’s Human Trafficking Bureau with support from multiple local and county law enforcement agencies, and victim advocacy by Covenant House. The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorneys General Kathleen Dillon and Karen Bornstein.

“The importance of providing immediate support for survivors of human trafficking cannot be overstated,” said Julia Einbond, CEO of Covenant House New Jersey. “Covenant House New Jersey is committed to ensuring every victim is connected with the resources they need to navigate the challenging road to recovery ahead.”

This prosecution follows the launch of the DCJ’s Human Trafficking Unit in 2023, which has since expanded enforcement efforts across New Jersey. The state also recently launched the S.T.A.L.L.S. for Safety campaign to increase public awareness and provide confidential resources for trafficking victims.

Anyone with information or in need of assistance can contact the New Jersey Human Trafficking Hotline at 855-END-NJ-HT (855-363-6548).