Maryland Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Victim to Martinsburg

Rodney Dale Johnson faces 15 years to life for transporting victim from Virginia to West Virginia

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:18pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single piece of physical evidence related to a sex trafficking crime, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of this type of crime without depicting any violence.A harsh close-up of physical evidence exposes the stark reality of a sex trafficking crime.Martinsburg Today

A 47-year-old man from Temple Hills, Maryland has pleaded guilty to federal sex trafficking charges for transporting a victim from Virginia to Martinsburg, West Virginia to engage in sex acts at a hotel. Rodney Dale Johnson admitted to using threats, force, and coercion against the victim.

Why it matters

Sex trafficking is a serious crime that exploits vulnerable individuals and violates human rights. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on these illicit activities, especially across state lines.

The details

According to court documents, Johnson transported the victim from Virginia to Martinsburg, West Virginia to engage in sex acts at a hotel. He used threats, threats of force, and coercion against the victim. On Wednesday, Johnson pled guilty in federal court.

  • On Wednesday, Johnson pled guilty in federal court.

The players

Rodney Dale Johnson

A 47-year-old man from Temple Hills, Maryland who pled guilty to federal sex trafficking charges.

Matthew L. Harvey

The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia who announced the guilty plea.

Kimberley Crockett

The Assistant U.S. Attorney prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

Robert J. Trumble

The U.S. Magistrate Judge who presided over the case.

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What they’re saying

“Sex trafficking is a serious crime that exploits vulnerable individuals and violates human rights.”

— Matthew L. Harvey, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of West Virginia

What’s next

Johnson faces 15 years to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the final sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing battle against sex trafficking and the need for continued vigilance and law enforcement efforts to protect vulnerable individuals and uphold human rights.