Bonneville County Prosecutor files human trafficking charges
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - UPDATE 5/10/24: An update on a human trafficking case out of Idaho Falls.
On Friday, the Idaho Falls Police Department released information saying one of the suspects, Gordon Dennis Shaw, is a former Idaho Falls police officer who retired from the department in the 90's.
He also held a number of temporary jobs at the department. His last one ending in 2008.
"This arrest underscores the IFPD's commitment to accountability and justice no matter a person's history or prior affiliation. We will continue to seek justice for victims, hold criminals responsible for their actions, and to maintain the integrity of the law enforcement profession," Police Chief Bryce Johnson said.
The Idaho Falls Police Department's Special Investigations Unit arrested the 83-year-old Shaw and 60-year-old Xue Fang Lue Wednesday.
They are both charged with human trafficking, interstate trafficking in prostitution and procurement of prostitution.
Court documents show a victim was lured from California to Idaho Falls by the two for prostitution sometime between April 1 and May 8.
The remaining details of this investigation are currently sealed by a court order.
ORIGINAL: Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney Randy Neal filed a criminal complaint Thursday charging two with human trafficking, interstate trafficking in prostitution and procurement of prostitution.
60-year-old Xue Fang Lu and 83-year-old Gordan Dennis Shaw had an initial appearance before Senior Magistrate Judge L. Mark Riddoch Thursday.
The charges stem from an investigation by the Special Investigations Unit (“SIU”) comprised of detectives from the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office.
Judge Riddoch set bond for Lu at $300,000 and for Shaw at $100,000.
The charges allege the victim was enticed to come to Idaho Falls from California and then coerced into commercial sexual activity. Although the complaint is now part of the public record, certain
details were sealed by the judge so detectives can continue an investigation.
“Human trafficking exploits the most vulnerable members of our world for profits,” Prosecutor Neal said. “I commend the diligent efforts of SIU in bringing forth this case.” Prosecutor Neal stated that federal investigators and prosecutors are also cooperating in the case.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 17, 2024.
