The Charleston Police Department (CPD) has arrested a North Charleston man on human trafficking charges following an investigation into prostitution in the West Ashley area. Detectives uncovered evidence that the suspect forced a victim into prostitution and profited financially, leading to his arrest.
On February 14, 2025, CPD detectives initiated a prostitution investigation in West Ashley. During the course of the investigation, officers identified an individual as a victim of human trafficking and immediately took steps to ensure their safety.
As the investigation progressed, detectives determined that Kevin Laval Thompson (29, of North Charleston) exploited and coerced the victim into prostitution for financial gain. Working in collaboration with federal partners, CPD detectives obtained a warrant for Thompson’s arrest on Trafficking in Persons – 1st Offense.
On February 17, 2025, CPD detectives, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, located and arrested Thompson. He is currently being held at the Al Cannon Detention Center. Thompson is currently under the supervision of South Carolina Probation Pardon and Parole.
The Charleston Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances of this case and whether additional victims or individuals may be involved.
Human trafficking is a serious crime that thrives in the shadows of silence. If you suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking, please call 911, the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or submit a tip anonymously at https://charlestonpd.fususvault.com/tips. CPD remains committed to protecting victims of human trafficking and holding offenders accountable.
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Media Release
Release Date: February 19, 2025
Media Contact: Sgt. C. Stinson
E-mail: cpdpublicinformationteam@charleston-sc.gov