(WNY News Now) – A Jamestown man has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of sex trafficking, kidnapping, and narcotics distribution.
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Duane Lowery, also known as Chi Chi, a 29-year-old resident of Jamestown, NY, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on multiple charges including conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, kidnapping, and drug-related offenses. The indictment, announced by U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross, carries a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, with the possibility of life behind bars.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lowery’s alleged criminal activities span from October to December 2022, during which he conspired with others to coerce individuals into commercial sex acts. The indictment further accuses Lowery of forcing an individual into such acts through force and coercion. Additionally, he is charged with the kidnapping of two individuals during October and November 2023.
Beyond the sex trafficking allegations, Lowery faces serious narcotics charges. Prosecutors claim he conspired to sell fentanyl and used a residence on W. Cowden Place in Jamestown as a base for drug trafficking operations.
The case is the result of a multi-agency investigation involving Homeland Security Investigations, the Jamestown Police Department, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, and the Olean Police Department.
As the legal process unfolds, it’s important to note that Lowery is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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