A woman known as “Stacks” has been busted in a child sex trafficking sting, according to Boston Police.
Shakera “Stacks” Pina, 29, of Boston, has been arrested following an investigation into sex trafficking and child exploitation.
The Boston Police Human Trafficking Unit — in collaboration with the Massachusetts State Police High-Risk Victims Unit, the FBI Trafficking Task Force, and Randolph Police — made the arrest earlier this month outside a hotel.
Detectives in the sting focused on an online classified ad platform, which was previously linked to sex trafficking and exploitation cases. Investigators found a sex ad featuring photos of a juvenile victim.
Undercover officers responded to the ad and texted the person who was controlling the listing. During the conversation, investigators arranged a meeting to purchase sexual services involving the minor at a hotel.
On the night of the sting, investigators received a call from the number associated with the ad. A woman said she would be arriving soon. About 21 minutes later, a second call confirmed her arrival at the hotel.
Investigators then met a 15-year-old girl at the hotel room, and identified themselves as law enforcement. The child was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and care.
Detectives learned that the girl had been transported to the hotel by a woman known as “Stacks,” who was waiting nearby in a vehicle. Investigators then found the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop. Upon noticing law enforcement, Pina allegedly tried to flee but she was quickly stopped.
As officers approached, they saw that Pina was allegedly trying to destroy evidence. Investigators ultimately placed her under arrest.
They found several plastic bags containing marijuana, a digital scale, multiple denominations of U.S. currency, and condoms.
“#FBI Boston’s Child Exploitation – Human Trafficking Task Force was proud to partner with @bostonpolice’s Human Trafficking Unit on this investigation that has resulted in the arrest of an alleged child sex trafficker,” FBI Boston posted.
Pina has been charged with human trafficking, deriving support from prostitution, resisting arrest, and possession of a Class D substance (marijuana) with intent to distribute.