Rowan County Rescues Missing Teen, Charges Ten in Human Trafficking Sting

A human trafficking sting operation in Rowan County, North Carolina, led to the rescue of a 16-year-old girl who had been reported missing since March 2025 and was found to be involved in prostitution. The operation, conducted over two days in early September, resulted in the arrest of ten individuals, including 22-year-old Kelton Isiah Sturdivant, who was charged with promoting prostitution of a minor, second-degree kidnapping, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance. The rescued teen was turned over to the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services, and the FBI has been contacted for a potential federal investigation. This marks the second time Rowan County deputies have rescued a missing juvenile from prostitution, with a similar case in 2024 leading to a conviction and sentencing. Other arrested suspects face charges including prostitution, drug possession, and weapon offenses. Sheriff Travis Allen praised the investigators' efforts, emphasizing the importance of these operations in combating human trafficking and protecting vulnerable youth.