The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially confirmed that Andres Trejo-Velazquez, a key suspect in a horrific child sex trafficking ring uncovered in Bibb County, Alabama, is a confirmed member of the notorious Sureños gang. This confirmation underscores the severe nature of the ongoing investigation, which has resulted in the arrest of eight individuals and involved at least ten child victims. The case, centered in Brent, Alabama, has sent shockwaves through the community due to the extreme allegations of abuse.
The extensive investigation, initiated in February 2025, revealed that children, some as young as three and up to fifteen years old, were subjected to systematic abuse within an underground bunker. Bibb County Sheriff Jody Wade indicated that the operation was highly lucrative, reportedly generating up to $1,000 per night from the victimization of children. Disturbing details include allegations of the use of shock collars and other forms of torture, with some victims reportedly being restrained.
Andres Trejo-Velazquez faces a litany of charges, including five counts of rape, seven counts of sodomy, six counts of human trafficking, and four counts of kidnapping. He is one of eight individuals apprehended in connection with the ring. Other suspects include William Chase McElroy, Dalton Terrell, Timothy St. John, Rebecca Brewer, Ricky Terrell, Sara Terrell, and Olivia Shailee Elam, who face a range of charges, including sexual torture and bestiality.
DHS confirmed Trejo-Velazquez's affiliation with the Sureños gang, noting that the organization is known to derive significant revenue from human trafficking activities. Sheriff Wade has stated his belief that the Sureños gang is largely funded through child sex trafficking. Trejo-Velazquez reportedly displayed gang tattoos and openly discussed his membership, providing early indicators to law enforcement. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is actively exploring potential connections between the gang, Mexican cartels, and the trafficking operation.
The multi-agency effort involves the Bibb County Sheriff's Office, DHS, and HSI, with the Alabama Department of Human Resources taking custody of the rescued children. The profound severity of the case has led to public calls for the death penalty for the perpetrators. This ongoing investigation highlights the pervasive nature of human trafficking and the critical importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating such heinous crimes.