A man in Fort Collins, Colorado was taken into custody under suspicion of engaging in human trafficking and sexual assault, with authorities suggesting that there could be additional victims connected to the case.
Authorities were alerted to potential human trafficking activities linked to 49-year-old John R. Fischer following a report from the Larimer County Department of Human Services on March 6, prompting an inquiry by the Fort Collins Police (FCPS).
An ensuing investigation by law enforcement disclosed that Fischer purportedly offered alcohol, methamphetamine, and cocaine to underage individuals, while also sexually assaulting at least one person in return for money and clothing.
The crimes happened for approximately one month, according to a news release.
Last Wednesday, detectives took Fischer into custody and booked him into the Larimer County Jail on the following charges: Three counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor and one count of human trafficking of a minor for sexual servitude, Class 4 and Class 2 felonies, respectively.
Denver7 via Fort Collins Police Services
Two days later, additional charges were filed against Fischer, including two counts of distribution of a controlled substance to a minor, Schedule II (a Class 1 felony), two counts of sexual assault (a Class 4 felony), and one count of pandering of a child (a Class 2 felony).
“It is vital we protect those most vulnerable in our society and ensure they can thrive in our community without fear of abuse or exploitation,” said Assistant Chief Frank Barrett, who oversees the FCPS Criminal Investigations Division.
Police said Fischer is also on parole “as a result of a previous case in Fort Collins” which involves juveniles.
Police are asking anyone with information regarding Fischer, or additional victims or juveniles who have had contact with him, to please contact Criminalist Laura Knudsen at (970) 222-2497.
