North Carolina man arrested over death of 16-year-old, charged with human trafficking
The suspect was allegedly involved in a relationship with the victim when she was 15
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The death of a North Carolina teenager on Tuesday has led police to investigate whether she may have been the victim of human trafficking.
The Greenville Police Department said officers responded to a report of an apparent overdose at the Baymont Inn. First responders were unable to save the victim, a 16-year-old girl, police said.
Authorities subsequently launched an investigation into Anthony James Cox, 21, who was reportedly in a relationship with the victim.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Courtesy of Pitt County Detention Center
Officials are withholding the name of the victim during the investigation.
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Cox has been charged with human trafficking, sexual servitude of a child, promoting prostitution, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and statutory rape of a child.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The victim was 15 when she allegedly started a relationship with Cox.
Court documents obtained by WITN show police believe Cox compelled the victim to become a prostitute, taking a portion of her earnings.
While police responded to a report of an overdose, a pending autopsy will determine the final cause of death.
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Cox has been arrested and is being heled under a $3 million bond, Greenville Police said in a statement.