MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) said nine men have been arrested and charged and potential victims found in a human trafficking undercover operation in West Tennessee.
The TBI said the undercover operation began Aug. 29, 2024, and lasted two days, targeting the Jackson, Tennessee, area. They said officers placed ads on websites linked to prostitution, focusing on people looking to engage in sex acts with minors.
The TBI said 12 potential human trafficking victims were found, some of which agents said were arrested on outstanding warrants. But they said all 12 were offered assistance from a victim service organization.
Agents said nine men were arrested, all charged with trafficking for a commercial sex act. All have been booked into the Madison County Jail.
- Blake Coulspon (DOB 03/25/1994), Jackson - $25,000 bond.
- Michal Knepp (DOB 10/29/1980), Jackson – $25,000 bond.
- Christopher Virgle (DOB 05/31/1983), Jackson – $25,000 bond.
- Jabbar Franklin (DOB 01/15/1993), Muscle Shoals, AL – $25,000 bond.
- James Brown (DOB 01/13/1978), Jackson – $5,000 bond.
- Rayvione Walker (DOB 12/24/2002), Jackson – $25,000 bond.
- Shane Meeks (DOB 07/01/1970), Michie – $25,000 bond.
- Tevin Williams (DOB 03/10/2002), Jackson – $25,000 bond.
- Angel Felipe (DOB 01/02/1999), Memphis – $25,000 bond.
The TBI said three others were also arrested on felony charges, which included drugs and robbery.
Information about human trafficking and TBI’s efforts to address this type of crime can be found online at www.ITHasToStop.com.
