Dauphin County Man Charged with Operating Multi-Year Sex Trafficking Ring in Central Pennsylvania

Human Trafficking Operation Exposed in Central PA

In a disturbing development, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday announced the arrest of Michael J. Choma, 45, of Dauphin County, who is accused of running a sex trafficking ring that operated for several years across Dauphin and Cumberland counties. Choma allegedly used websites such as “Backpage” and “Skip the Games” to recruit vulnerable women and advertise commercial sex between 2017 and 2021.

Authorities say Choma preyed on individuals experiencing substance abuse and financial instability, using coercion, violence, and access to drugs to control them. His arrest marks a significant step toward justice for the many victims affected by this exploitative operation.

Serious Charges Filed Against Choma

Michael Choma has been charged with a wide range of felonies, including:

• Trafficking in individuals
• Involuntary servitude
• Promoting prostitution
• Rape
• Aggravated and indecent assault
• Sexual assault
• Criminal use of a communication facility
• Delivery of a controlled substance
• Dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities

A Dauphin County district judge denied bail, citing Choma as a "threat to victims and society." Investigators allege that he posted ads, controlled communication with sex buyers, and kept most of the money earned. In some cases, he reportedly arranged for victims to exchange sex acts with a known drug supplier in return for drugs—drugs he would later resell.

Use of GHB and Drug-Facilitated Assaults

Perhaps most alarming are the accusations that Choma used GHB, commonly referred to as the “date rape drug,” to incapacitate victims before sexually assaulting them. Investigators allege that he drugged individuals until they were unconscious and then proceeded to assault them—highlighting the severe abuse of power and manipulation involved in his actions.

Statewide Collaboration Brings Charges Forward

The investigation into Choma’s activities was a joint effort between the Office of Attorney General’s Human Trafficking Section and the Pennsylvania State Police’s Organized Crime Unit. Deputy Attorneys General Kayla Bolan and Lauren Perchinski will be leading the prosecution.

Attorney General Dave Sunday praised the collaborative effort and emphasized the damage human trafficking causes to communities. “This conduct was nothing short of cruel and dehumanizing,” he stated, affirming the state’s commitment to combating trafficking and supporting survivors.

Support for Survivors in Pennsylvania

At Survivors of Abuse PA, we stand with the victims impacted by this horrific case and others like it. Survivors of sex trafficking have legal rights and may be entitled to pursue civil justice in addition to the criminal prosecution of their traffickers.

If you or someone you know was affected by Michael J. Choma or another trafficker, our experienced legal team can help. We provide compassionate, confidential consultations to help you understand your rights and options under Pennsylvania law.

Contact Ashley B. DiLiberto, Esq. Today

Attorney Ashley B. DiLiberto of Survivors of Abuse PA has extensive experience advocating for victims of sex trafficking and abuse. With a trauma-informed approach and a proven record in high-profile litigation, she is committed to helping survivors pursue justice and healing.

Don’t wait to get the support you need. Contact us today at (267) 502-9090 or visit SurvivorsofAbusePA.com to schedule your free and confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/taking-action/dauphin-county-man-charged-with-orchestrating-central-pa-based-sex-trafficking-operation/