Human Trafficking Victim’s Distressed Call Leads To ‘Shocking’ Discovery, Sheriff Says

TAMPA (HCSO) – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has rescued a victim and arrested a convicted felon on human trafficking related charges.

On September 14, 2023, HCSO received a disturbance call for service that ultimately led to the arrest of an individual involved in a shocking human trafficking case.

Deputies responded to the call from a distressed female who reported that her pimp was attempting to forcibly enter the residence where she had locked herself in a bathroom. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with an adult female and male at the location and immediately initiated interviews. Detectives from our Human Trafficking Squad quickly responded to the scene to begin a thorough investigation.

“This case is a prime example of why the dedicated Human Trafficking Squad is so important,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “They are able to respond to scenes,  use their expertise to identify and rescue victims.”

During their investigation, detectives uncovered disturbing details surrounding the victim’s ordeal. The victim had met the suspect, identified as Mark Zillig, 52, on social media three months prior. She had relocated from New York to Florida with Zillig, who, over the course of months, coerced her into engaging in commercial sex acts.

Zillig facilitated these activities by setting up escort advertisements, communicating with sex buyers, and transporting the victim to her appointments. Furthermore, he systematically groomed the victim, instructing her on what to say to sex buyers to ensure future encounters.

The victim was coerced into handing over half of her earnings from prostitution to the suspect. She was exploited, based on her vulnerabilities, and even coerced into getting a tattoo as a symbol of her loyalty to Zillig, a common tactic used by traffickers to control their victims psychologically.

The victim summoned the courage to contact law enforcement on this day, expressing her desire to escape this harrowing lifestyle. Consequently, after a thorough investigation by our deputies and detectives, probable cause was established to charge Mark Zillig with the following offenses:

• Coerce for Commercial Sex Act by Human Trafficking
• Deriving Support from Proceeds of Prostitution
• Transporting for Prostitution
• Forcing Another to Become a Prostitute

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the brave victim for her courage in coming forward and placing her trust in our deputies,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I’d also wish to acknowledge the invaluable assistance provided by Selah Freedom, who worked closely with our detectives and provided essential resources to support the victim in her journey to recovery. Our commitment to combating human trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community remains stronger than ever.”

Zillig is a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history, including Grand Larceny, Assault and drug-related charges.

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