Princeton police conducted a welfare check at a residence and discovered what they suspect are victims of human trafficking.
Authorities found 15 adult women who reported being compelled to work for businesses owned by Santhosh Katkoori and his wife. Katkoori and three others have been charged with trafficking persons.
Jeremy Rosenthal, attorney for Katkoori, contested the charges, stating, “It’s not straightforward human trafficking. There are facts the police examined, but it appears there was significant arrest activity before thorough investigation.”
According to the police investigation, the women were sleeping on bed rolls, with minimal furniture in the home apart from folding tables.
“While the living conditions may be unconventional and uncommon, there is no evidence of fraud, force, or coercion,” Rosenthal argued. “These elements are necessary under the law to establish human trafficking.”
The arrest affidavit mentioned that the women informed police they had come for an internship to apply for jobs and learn JavaScript. Once employed, their earnings were allegedly managed by Katkoori, who withheld 20 percent and disbursed the remainder to them.
Detective Aarmando Loya of Princeton Police confirmed, “They were engaged in work, not solely residing in the residence.”
Rosenthal emphasized that the allegations do not meet the threshold for second-degree felony trafficking.
“Most, if not all, of these women have advanced degrees or are pursuing them,” Rosenthal noted. “They received training, job placement, and paid 20 percent in return. While I’m not an employment lawyer, this situation appears far removed from human trafficking.”
Katkoori is presently free on bond while the investigation unfolds.
