Oakland County’s crackdown on human trafficking intensifies as Waterford resident Quincy Bland faces nine charges, including felony trafficking allegations.
Human Trafficking Allegations Stem from Local Investigation
PONTIAC, Mich. — A Waterford man, Quincy Lamar Bland, 43, faces nine criminal charges, including seven felonies, in what Oakland County officials call a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of human trafficking. Prosecutor Karen D. McDonald announced the charges following the identification of trafficking victims in an investigation by the Waterford Police Department.
The case unfolded after police interviewed a trafficking victim on November 25, 2024, who claimed Bland exploited her and another woman at various hotels in Waterford and beyond. According to the victim, Bland used violence, threats, and drug dependency to control them, often forcing them to stay awake and work for extended periods. The following day, police arrested Bland and discovered a bag of suspected meth, crack, and heroin on his person. A subsequent search of his home revealed cash, multiple cell phones, and drug paraphernalia.
Oakland County’s Human Trafficking Response Grows
Bland’s charges include two counts of Engaging in a Human Trafficking Enterprise Resulting in Injury, two counts of Transporting a Person for Prostitution, and two counts of Accepting Earnings from Prostitution. Additionally, he faces a drug-related felony and two misdemeanor assault charges. Each trafficking-related felony carries a penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment.
This case marks the second major trafficking arrest in Oakland County within weeks. On November 22, Prenentice Mack Orr of Southfield was charged with felony trafficking and torture after a victim reported forced labor. Both arrests follow statewide human trafficking training for law enforcement, sponsored by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutor Calls for Continued Action Against Traffickers
“These cases are just the beginning,” said McDonald, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat human trafficking in Michigan. “Traffickers exploit vulnerable individuals through drugs and violence, operating under the radar. The recent training and collaboration between law enforcement and prosecutors are critical tools to fight this crisis.”
Bland remains in custody at Oakland County Jail with a bond set at $100,000. His Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for December 10, 2024, at the 51st District Court.
Broader Context and Community Implications
Michigan ranks among the states with a significant number of human trafficking incidents, a problem exacerbated by its central location and proximity to international borders. As Oakland County steps up its efforts, officials hope these high-profile arrests will deter traffickers and encourage more victims to come forward.
Community organizations and advocacy groups are working alongside law enforcement to provide resources for victims, many of whom face immense barriers to seeking help. The focus is not only on prosecutions but also on rehabilitation and support for survivors.
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