Paducah Police received a report from a woman who worked for 42-year-old Vikaskumar Patel of Paducah, accusing him of taking all her pay rather than just the money owed in a separate rental agreement. The woman said Patel was depositing her entire check into an account belonging to him, something detectives were able to confirm.
The woman additionally accused Patel of unwanted sexual advances and inappropriate touching.
While investigating these claims, another woman came to police saying that she had also worked for Patel. The woman said that she was under 18 at the time and that she was forced to engage in what was described as commercial sexual activity with a man. The second woman also told police that after leaving Patel’s employment, she was called to come get some of her belongings. When she got there, the woman said she was led into a hotel room and was sexually assaulted by an unknown male.
Paducah Police arrested Patel on Monday. He is charged with human trafficking-commercial sexual activity with a victim under 18, sexual abuse, complicity to rape, and theft by deception under $10,000. He was booked into the McCracken County Regional Jail.
The investigation is continuing. Anyone with additional information should call Paducah Police or leave an anonymous tip through West Kentucky Crime Stoppers.
Paducah Police Department at 270-444-8550
For CrimeStoppers, scan the QR code with your smartphone for more information or text “WKY” to 738477
