Nashville, Tennessee, August 24, 2025
News Summary
Francisco Pascual Angulo, 37, was arrested in Nashville for allegedly trafficking two women into sexual exploitation. The women were coerced into sex acts, manipulated via online platforms with false promises of a luxurious lifestyle. After escaping, they helped authorities apprehend Angulo, who faces severe charges amid a broader human trafficking investigation linked to Venezuelan nationals operating in the area.
Nashville, Tennessee – A 37-year-old man named Francisco Pascual Angulo was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly trafficking two women for sexual exploitation. Angulo, who reportedly contacted the victims through an online platform, promised them a luxurious lifestyle in exchange for their travel to Nashville.
One victim arrived in Nashville on a flight from Miami, while the second made the journey by driving a rental car from El Paso. Upon their arrival, the women were coerced into engaging in sexual acts with unknown clients, with Angulo providing them with price lists for various services. They were instructed to accept payments either in cash or via electronic transfer.
According to authorities, Angulo controlled various aspects of the women’s lives, including their food intake. He reportedly threatened both the victims and their families if they failed to comply with his demands. The situation came to a head when the women managed to escape his clutches on February 10, using a phone to call the police from a motel located on Demonbreun Street.
The victims had been brought to Nashville on separate dates, January 28 and January 31. Following their successful escape, law enforcement responded promptly, leading to a raid on Angulo’s residence. During this operation, authorities seized approximately $118,000 in cash, a brand-new 2024 Corvette, a Tesla sedan, a range of jewelry, and various luxury items.
Angulo was subsequently booked into the Metro jail after he reportedly refused to answer any questions posed by detectives. He is facing two counts of trafficking for a commercial sex act, with bail set at $150,000. Angulo’s criminal history includes multiple felony convictions for drug possession in 2009 and 2019, which had earlier resulted in probated sentences.
This case is part of a larger human trafficking investigation that has led to several other arrests concerning a sex trafficking ring linked to Venezuelan nationals operating in the Middle Tennessee area. Authorities indicated that this operation involved recruiting women from Venezuela who were coerced into sex work to pay off exorbitant fines related to their smuggling into the United States.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Metro Nashville Police Department, have been actively conducting ongoing operations targeting human trafficking in the Nashville area. Recent undercover operations have successfully led to multiple arrests in connection with this troubling issue.
The prompt actions of the victims and the diligent work of law enforcement underline the ongoing commitment to combating human trafficking within Tennessee. This incident sheds light on the dangers faced by individuals who may be lured into exploitative situations under false pretenses.
Background context
Human trafficking is a serious issue that affects millions worldwide. It often involves the coercion of individuals into commercial sexual exploitation or forced labor. The recruitment methods can vary widely, including false promises of employment or lifestyle improvements, as seen in this case where Angulo preyed on vulnerabilities and exploited the victims’ desire for a better life.
FAQ Section
What were the charges against Francisco Pascual Angulo?
Francisco Pascual Angulo was charged with two counts of trafficking for a commercial sex act.
How did the victims escape from Angulo’s control?
The two women managed to call the police from a motel on Demonbreun Street, which led to their rescue.
What items were seized by authorities from Angulo’s residence?
Authorities seized $118,000 in cash, a 2024 Corvette, a Tesla sedan, jewelry, and other high-end goods.
What is the status of the investigation into human trafficking in Nashville?
Law enforcement agencies are actively conducting ongoing operations to combat human trafficking, resulting in multiple recent arrests linked to a broader sex trafficking ring.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrest | Francisco Pascual Angulo, 37, arrested for sex trafficking. |
| Victims | Two women lured into sex trade with false promises. |
| Location | Nashville, Tennessee. |
| Escaped | Victims escaped on February 10 by calling police. |
| Seizures | $118,000 cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry seized from Angulo’s residence. |
| Law Enforcement Involvement | TBI and Metro Nashville Police actively combating trafficking. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Giuffre Family Seeks Clarity After Trump’s Epstein Comments
Homeland Security’s Kristi Noem Addresses Immigration in Nashville
Tennessee Human Rights Commission Set to Dissolve
Court Deliberates Release Conditions for Human Smuggler
Kilmar Abrego Garcia Faces Trafficking Charges in Nashville
Maryland Man Wrongly Deported to El Salvador Faces Legal Battle
Community Protests Detention of Immigrant in Nashville
Metro Nashville Prepares for Protests Ahead of Arraignment
Maryland Man Indicted for Human Smuggling After Wrongful Deportation
Tennessee Schools Face Controversial Immigration Bill
Additional Resources
- WKRN: Human Trafficking Suspect Arrested
- Wikipedia: Human Trafficking
- Newschannel5: Several Charged in Nashville Human Trafficking Ring
- Google Search: Human Trafficking Tennessee
- WSMV: 9 Arrested in Undercover Human Trafficking Operation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Human Trafficking
- Fox17: Five in Custody in Alleged Human Trafficking Brothel
- Google News: Human Trafficking Nashville
- Tennessean: Tennessee Human Trafficking Operation Ends in 9 Arrests
- Action News 5: Missing Girl Found in Nashville Hotel
- WATE: 8 Venezuelan Nationals Indicted for Sex Trafficking Ring
Author: HERE Nashville
The NASHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENashville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as CMA Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Nashville Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Nashville Health Care Council, plus leading businesses in healthcare, automotive, and technology that power the local economy such as HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone Americas, and Asurion. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HEREMemphis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
