FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 13, 2024
Lynchburg Police Department Makes Arrest in Sex Trafficking Investigation
Lynchburg, VA – In an ongoing investigation into a sex trafficking operation, the Lynchburg Police Department (LPD), in partnership with the Virginia State Police (VSP) Human Trafficking Unit, executed a significant operation aimed at dismantling a sex trafficking network in the region.
The investigation, which began in June of 2024, focused on activities occurring in the 700 block of Leesville Road in Lynchburg. On December 12, 2024, LPD and VSP conducted Operation White Rabbit, executing search warrants in both the City of Lynchburg and Thomasville, North Carolina.
Thomas Lee Thomas II, 58, a resident of Thomasville, North Carolina, was charged with several serious offenses related to sex trafficking. He is currently awaiting extradition back to Virginia to face the following charges:
- Receiving money from the earnings of male or female prostitutes (COV 18.2-357 (F))
- Commercial sex trafficking (COV 18.2-357.1 (F))
- Conspiracy to commit sex trafficking (COV 18.2-22/18.2-357.1 (F))
- Keeping, residing in, or visiting a bawdy place for immoral purposes (COV 18.2-347 (M))
- Receiving money for procuring or placing a person at a location for the purpose of sex trafficking (COV 18.2-356 (F))
The Lynchburg Police Department would like to express its appreciation to the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Lexington, North Carolina, for their valuable assistance and partnership throughout this investigation. Additionally, the department extends its gratitude to Freedom424 and their dedicated staff for their outstanding support and resources provided during the operation.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information that may assist in this case to contact Detective Davis with the Lynchburg Police Department at 434-455-6166 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter an anonymous tip online at http://p3tips.com, use the P3 app on a mobile device, or text CVCS to 738477 to receive a link to our anonymous tip form. Msg frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text HELP for help and STOP to cancel. P3 Terms and Privacy Policy.