LAKE WORTH BEACH, FL – Authorities in Palm Beach County have arrested two men accused of running an illegal operation that allegedly involved holding women against their will. The arrests followed a distress call from a woman who managed to alert deputies using the phone’s location services, claiming she was being held captive in an unmarked residence.
Deputies swiftly responded to the scene on South H Street, where they encountered Udevan and Glenn Latimore acting suspiciously. Upon investigating, they discovered two women inside the house, both of whom were reportedly there against their will. The Latimore brothers were taken into custody on charges of human trafficking and maintaining a house of ill repute.
According to investigators, the victims were lured into the situation under false pretenses, having been promised legitimate job opportunities. Once inside, they were allegedly coerced into working in the brothel, with threats to their lives if they attempted to leave or seek help. The arrest report indicates that the brothers had connections to other similar operations, which are currently part of ongoing investigations.
Sheriff Ric Bradshaw addressed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the serious nature of these crimes. He noted the impact such operations have on local communities, stating, “These are serious offenses that happen right in people’s neighborhoods.” The sheriff further mentioned that the suspects have immigration detainers and are not expected to be released.
The Latimore brothers have a history of legal troubles, with previous arrests that led to one being deported, only to return illegally. Their mother had intervened in the past, but the cycle of crime continued. Sheriff Bradshaw anticipates that the suspects will be deported once again following the legal proceedings.
In light of these arrests, local authorities are ramping up efforts to combat similar crimes. This includes plans to seize properties used for illegal activities and hold absentee landlords accountable for neglecting to monitor their properties. The sheriff underscored the importance of community vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious activities.
The case highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking and exploitation within Palm Beach County, as law enforcement continues to dismantle networks that prey on vulnerable individuals. As investigations unfold, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents.