Crime & Safety

North Andover Man Charged in Human Trafficking Sting

The sting occurred in Lawrence.

A local man police say was a pimp in Lawrence has been arrested in connection with a human trafficking/prostitution sting in Lawrence.

John Sabato, 26, of 85 Main St., North Andover, was arrested for human trafficking and resisting arrest and arraigned in Lawrence District Court Thursday.

He is held on $10,000 bail. Prosecutors had requested a $25,000 bail, District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett's office said.

Find out what's happening in North Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Sabato was among more than 30 people arrested in Lawrence after police reportedly arrested set up stings in various Lawrence locations to catch people soliciting prostitutes in that city as well as pimps.

Another man was arrested along with Sabato. Paul Molbeck, 22, of 4 Custer St., Lawrence, is charged with human trafficking and also had a case already pending for assault and battery, destruction of property and shoplifting.

Find out what's happening in North Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Both Sabato and Molbeck are scheduled to appear in Lawrence District Court Friday for appointment of counsel.

Last November, Gov. Deval Patrick signed a law establishing a state crime for human trafficking for sexual servitude and penalties of five years in prison and a $25,000, as well as other penalties for more serious cases and cases involving children. The law targets pimps as well as men who solicit prostitution.


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