Houston’s most dangerous sex trafficker captured

HOUSTON, TX – A man once considered one of the most dangerous human traffickers in the Houston area has been apprehended by authorities after nearly two years on the run. Thaddeus Allen, who had been evading capture since skipping bail during his 2023 trial, was discovered in a Houston hospital on New Year’s Eve under an alias, reportedly in critical condition following an overdose on PCP and methamphetamine.

The Harris County Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) received a tip that led them to Allen on Monday. Despite his absence, a jury had convicted Allen of forcing an 18-year-old Houston woman into sex trafficking, often at gunpoint. Known by the nickname “The Ghost” due to his ability to evade law enforcement, Allen’s capture marks the end of a long and troubling chapter.

Allen, out on a $200,000 bond at the time of his trial, had a history of multiple felony convictions and prison stints. His abrupt disappearance during the trial’s final stages left a wake of unanswered questions and heightened concerns in the community. Authorities had offered a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to his capture, though it remains unclear if the tip that led to his arrest was connected to this incentive.

The young woman who testified against Allen played a crucial role in his conviction, showing remarkable bravery in confronting her trafficker. Her testimony was pivotal in the jury’s decision to recommend a 75-year prison sentence for Allen, a sentence that could effectively keep him behind bars for the rest of his life.

As Allen remains in custody at the hospital, the community breathes a sigh of relief knowing that a significant threat has been neutralized. Once released from medical care, Allen is expected to be transferred directly to prison to begin serving his sentence.

The case underscores the ongoing battle against human trafficking in the region, as law enforcement continues to dismantle networks and bring perpetrators to justice. The courage of survivors and the persistence of investigators are vital components in this fight, and Allen’s capture is a testament to their unwavering efforts.