VOI World/ Desk
Federal authorities in Nebraska have charged five Indian-American business owners with a string of crimes, including sex trafficking, forced child and adult labor, visa fraud, and money laundering.
The accused – Ken Chaudhari, Rashmi Samani, Amit Prahladbhai Chaudhari, Amit Babubhai Chaudhari, and Maheshkumar Chaudhari—face allegations stemming from a multi-year investigation into their Omaha-area hotels and salons.
Prosecutors say they exploited at least 10 minors (some as young as 12) and 17 adults, forcing them to work long hours under unsanitary conditions for minimal or no pay. The properties were reportedly used for sex trafficking and drug-related activity, with Narcan present at one hotel due to frequent overdoses.
Authorities also allege one defendant staged a fake robbery to fraudulently obtain a U visa for a collaborator. Over $565,000 in cash was seized during coordinated raids across multiple sites on August 12. Victims have been relocated to safe housing and are receiving support services.
All five remain in federal custody, pending court hearings. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
