Spokane Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Sex Trafficking, Drug Crimes

James Anthony Stinson convicted on 11 felony counts, including coercing victims into sex work

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:10pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun magazine filled with ammunition, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the dangerous weapons and drugs seized during the investigation.The seizure of firearms and drugs from a hotel room trafficking operation highlights the dangerous intersection of organized crime and public safety.Spokane Today

A 55-year-old Spokane man named James Anthony Stinson has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after a jury convicted him on 11 felony counts, including sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms. Prosecutors say Stinson turned local hotel rooms into hubs for drugs, guns, and the exploitation of victims through coercion and violence.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of sex trafficking and drug distribution networks that operate out of hotels, putting vulnerable individuals at risk and endangering public safety. The lengthy sentence is part of a broader effort by federal and local law enforcement to target these types of criminal enterprises in Eastern Washington.

The details

The investigation into Stinson began in 2021 when controlled drug buys led police to his hotel rooms, where they found distribution quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl pills, along with multiple firearms. Further investigation uncovered evidence that Stinson was threatening and assaulting a commercial sex worker, and using force and coercion to push victims into sex work.

  • The investigation into Stinson began in 2021 with controlled drug buys.
  • Stinson was arrested in 2021.
  • On March 18, 2026, Stinson was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison.

The players

James Anthony Stinson

A 55-year-old Spokane man who was convicted on 11 felony counts, including sex trafficking, drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of firearms.

FBI Spokane Child Exploitation/Human Trafficking Task Force

The multi-agency task force that drove the investigation into Stinson's criminal enterprise.

Spokane Police Department

One of the law enforcement agencies that participated in the investigation.

Spokane County Sheriff's Office

One of the law enforcement agencies that participated in the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“As this investigation into Mr. Stinson progressed, it revealed even more crimes, all of them harmful to the public.”

— W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge

What’s next

The judge ordered Stinson to serve 10 years of supervised release after his 30-year prison term and to pay about $28,000 in restitution to his victims.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle drug and human trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable individuals and endanger public safety. The lengthy sentence sends a strong message that these crimes will be met with serious consequences.