The Charleston Police Department (CPD) has arrested a Summerville man on human trafficking charges following an investigation into prostitution in the West Ashley area. Detectives uncovered evidence that the suspect forced a victim into prostitution and profited financially, leading to his arrest.
On April 9, 2025, CPD detectives initiated a prostitution investigation in West Ashley. During the investigation, officers identified an individual as a victim of human trafficking and immediately took steps to ensure their safety.
As the investigation progressed, detectives determined that Johnathan Ahmad Dais (33, of Summerville) exploited and coerced the victim into prostitution for financial gain. The victim also reported that Dais had previously strangled and punched them so severely that they feared for their life. Working in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), detectives charged Dais with assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, trafficking in persons – 1st offense and prostitution 2nd offense. He is in custody at the Al Cannon Detention Center.
Human trafficking is a serious crime that thrives in the shadows of silence. If you suspect someone may be a victim of human trafficking, please call 911, the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888, or submit a tip anonymously at www.charleston-sc.gov/tips. CPD remains committed to protecting victims of human trafficking and holding offenders accountable.
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Media Release
Release Date: April 11, 2025
Media Contact: Sgt. C. Stinson