San Joaquin County Secures One of Its Largest Human Trafficking Sentences: Jesus Ramirez Gets 25 Years

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office announces the sentencing of Jesus Ramirez, who will serve 25 years in state prison for human trafficking, kidnapping, and violent assaults against two victims. He is also required to register as a lifetime sex offender under Penal Code section 290.

Ramirez and Jane D. Doe had previously been in a relationship but had separated. On October 31, 2022, Ramirez kidnapped Jane D. Doe at gunpoint, assaulted her with the help of Kaylanie Pike and an accomplice, and transported her to a motel where Jane V. Doe and a minor co-conspirator, previously adjudicated, were waiting. Ramirez and Pike told Jane D. Doe they intended to force her into prostitution and imposed strict control, including blocking exits, enforcing quotas, and threatening violence.

Both victims endured repeated physical abuse, forced prostitution, deprivation of food, and threats intended to keep them from escaping. Jane D. Doe ultimately fled by jumping from a moving vehicle near Spanos Elementary School and sought help from law enforcement. Weeks later, officers contacted Jane V. Doe, who disclosed the ongoing trafficking, violence, and coercion she had suffered since the summer.

All co-conspirators have now been sentenced.

In March 2024, Ramirez pled to human trafficking with great bodily injury and kidnapping. Following delays caused by the defendant, he was sentenced today to 25 years in state prison. District Attorney Ron Freitas stated: 

“The exceptional efforts of our prosecutor in this case, combined with strong investigative work and unwavering collaboration between our law enforcement partners, made this historic sentence possible. Human trafficking offenders will find no safe harbor in San Joaquin County. We will pursue them, prosecute them, and protect the victims they target.”

This significant sentence reflects San Joaquin County’s strong commitment to combating human trafficking. The case also underscores how trafficking can begin within familiar or intimate relationships. Anyone who suspects that a friend or family member may be at risk is urged to contact law enforcement or the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center. Community members should also be aware that demand from sex purchasers continues to drive exploitation, and all suspected trafficking activity should be reported immediately.