In South Carolina, a disturbing case has come to light, showing the dark and brutal world of human trafficking. Brittany Danielle Cromer, a 34-year-old woman from Greenville, pleaded guilty to human trafficking conspiracy. This case is a stark reminder of the evils lurking in our society and the urgent need for law enforcement to tackle such heinous crimes.
Cromer, involved in a sex trafficking scheme, now faces the possibility of life in prison for her actions. This case, investigated by numerous law enforcement agencies including the FBI, Greenville Police, and several county sheriff’s offices, reveals the extent and severity of human trafficking networks operating within our communities.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office presented chilling evidence in court, showing Cromer’s partnership with co-defendant Eric Rashun Jones, 31, from Newberry. From March to November 2022, they exploited vulnerable women in the commercial sex trade using force, fraud, and coercion. Jones, already convicted of related charges and awaiting sentencing, led this conspiracy by preying on victims of domestic violence and those battling drug dependencies, prostituting them for his financial benefit. He brutally assaulted these women, inflicting severe physical harm, including breaking one victim’s orbital socket and bursting her eardrum.
The cruelty of Jones’s actions is beyond words. He not only physically and sexually abused these women but also manipulated them through their drug addictions, keeping them trapped in a cycle of exploitation and fear. The FBI recovered videos showing Jones directing the physical assault of women working under him. This sadistic behavior highlights the urgent need for aggressive law enforcement and judicial measures to combat human trafficking.
Cromer was deeply involved in this criminal enterprise. She was fully aware of Jones’s background as a fugitive and gang member with no legitimate job, and his exploitation of women for prostitution. She knew about the violence he inflicted on these women and yet chose to assist him. Cromer facilitated this operation by setting up payment methods to confiscate proceeds and took an active role in monitoring the victims, especially when Jones was in custody.
This case is a horrifying example of the control traffickers exert over their victims, stripping them of their freedom, dignity, and hope. U.S. Attorney for the District of South Carolina emphasized the commitment of the office to prosecute such trafficking cases and support the survivors in their recovery.
Cromer’s guilty plea brings her face to face with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a substantial fine, and potential lifetime supervision. As part of her plea agreement, she has agreed to pay restitution to the victims, although the amount has not been disclosed.
As Cromer awaits sentencing, this case serves as a grim reminder of the prevalence of human trafficking and the need for a vigilant and proactive approach to protect the vulnerable in our society. The fight against such crimes must continue unabated, ensuring justice for the victims and a safer community for all.
