Scioto County man accused of prostitution involving minor

SCIOTO COUNTY, Ohio (WOWK) – A Scioto County man has been arrested for allegedly compelling a juvenile into prostitution.

According to Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman, the suspect, Alex Morales, 19, of Portsmouth, was arrested Monday and is charged with one count of compelling prostitution involving a minor, which is a third-degree felony.

Thoroughman says the investigation began when a deputy driving on Scioto Trail approached the intersection of Kinney’s Lane and saw a female trying to roll down a vehicle’s rear passenger window as if she needed help. The female then started screaming that the driver was high, so the deputy stopped the vehicle on Kinney Lane with assistance from the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The sheriff’s office says that during the traffic stop, someone disclosed information about a possible sex offense involving a juvenile, as well as other allegations. A detective then responded to the scene.

Through the investigation, deputies say they learned that a juvenile had allegedly been paid for sexual acts with the adult driver of the vehicle.

Moreales was arrested and has posted a $10,000 cash bond. He was also served a summons for OVI, according to the sheriff’s office.

Thoroughman says this investigation is ongoing, and anyone with any information regarding the case should contact the sheriff’s office at 740-351-1091.