Edwards
GOSHEN – Newburgh resident Theodore Edwards, 49, was arraigned in Orange County Court on Wednesday on accusations of kidnapping and sexual trafficking among other crimes.
Theodore Edwards, 49, was charged in connection with crimes over the course of seven months.
“The case involves approximately four women and involves the charges of kidnapping as well as sex trafficking,” said District Attorney David Hoovler. “The allegations cover a period of time where essentially the women were held against their will and forced to do things they did not want to participate in.”
Charges against Edwards include three counts of kidnapping, four counts of rape, three counts of criminal sexual act, 12 counts of sex trafficking, five counts of promoting prostitution, sexual abuse, stalking, assault and unlawful imprisonment.
Between August 1, 2015 and March 17, 2016, Edwards allegedly kidnapped or unlawfully imprisoned the women at 222 Broadway in the City of Newburgh, subjected them to assaults and other physical abuse, and forced them to perform sex acts on him, and in the case of three victims, other individuals as well. He even posted ads on the Internet featuring the opportunity to have sex with three of the victims.
Bail for Edwards was set at $1 million cash or $7 million bond.
The investigation is continuing. Anyone with additional information on this case, or who was also a victim, is urged to call the DA’s Office.
