Alleged North Richmond gang member charged with human trafficking

RICHMOND — County prosecutors have charged a 34-year-old man with seven felonies related to alleged sex trafficking, court records show.

Mychal Duane Nelson, of Richmond, faces two counts of human trafficking and pandering, as well as charges of showing porn to a minor, using a minor for sex acts, and contact with a minor for a sex offense.

Prosecutors allege Nelson used social media to recruit a 16-year-old girl into sex trafficking. As part of that, he allegedly sent her sexually explicit photos and video of himself and asked her send similar content of herself.

According to court records, Nelson has prior convictions for attempted murder and participation in a criminal street gang. He is also being charged in a Hercules burglary where more than $20,000 of property was taken.

In addition to the 16-year-old, four other alleged victims are listed in court records. Police say the investigation involved the FBI Safe Streets Task Force as well as police in Los Angeles, Richmond, and Vallejo.

Nelson was arrested July 13, in Hayward, and remains in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility.

Information on how human trafficking victims can seek help can be found HERE.