Four people of Telugu descent have been accused of running a ‘forced labor’ scheme in Collin County. The arrests came after the discovery of more than a dozen young women living in a house under harsh conditions, forced to sleep on the floor.
Authorities found the house, which was central to the human trafficking operation, almost empty of furniture but filled with computer electronics and blankets. The Princeton Police Department revealed that their investigation, which began in March, led to the arrest of four individuals and the rescue of 15 women believed to be victims of labor trafficking.
The investigation began when a pest control company was called to a residence on Ginsburg Lane to check for bed bugs. Inside, the inspector noticed “3-5 young females sleeping on the floors” in each room and “large amounts of suitcases.” The company reported this to the police.
Sgt. Carolyn Crawford of the Princeton Police mentioned that the operation involved dozens of people, estimating that over 100 individuals were affected, with more than half being victims. She also indicated that further arrests are expected.
The individuals who were arrested are Chandan Dasireddy, 24; Dwaraka Gunda, 31; Santhosh Katkoori, 31; and Anil Male, 37, all charged with trafficking of persons. Princeton Police Chief James Waters stated that his team has been working with federal investigators for several months, uncovering extensive clues and multiple locations connected to the operation.
Neighbors were taken aback upon discovering the situation, with additional addresses in McKinney, Melissa, and other cities allegedly involved in the forced labor scheme.
Authorities have not yet revealed information regarding the victims’ origins, how they were coerced into labor, or their chances of escape. A search warrant was executed at Santhosh Katkoori’s residence during the investigation, leading to the discovery of 15 women who were reportedly forced to work for various shell companies owned by Katkoori and his wife, Dwaraka Gunda.
Investigators determined that the victims, both male and female, were employed as programmers. Numerous laptops, phones, printers, and fraudulent documents were confiscated from Katkoori’s residence and other associated locations in Princeton, Melissa, and McKinney.
Law enforcement officials are still conducting inquiries and anticipate filing additional charges. They encourage anyone with information about the trafficking operation or potential victims to reach out to the Princeton Police Department. The U.S. Department of State estimates that between 15,000 to 18,500 individuals are trafficked into the United States annually for bonded or forced labor.
