A 78 year old Powell man is facing a felony aggravated sex trafficking charge in Montana following an investigation into allegations that he solicited vulnerable women in the Billings area.
According to the Powell Tribune, Roy S. Reid was arrested Aug. 13 and charged by Yellowstone County prosecutors. Reid has pleaded not guilty and remained in custody as of Aug. 26 on a $25,000 bond.
Authorities allege Reid had been traveling to Billings and soliciting women for sexual activity in exchange for money and alcohol. Investigators with the Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation reportedly observed Reid picking up a known trafficking victim from a homeless outreach facility in June. His vehicle was later observed at that facility and the Montana Rescue Mission on multiple occasions.
On Aug. 12 and 13, staff at the Montana Rescue Mission reported concerns about a man soliciting women at the shelter. Investigators with state and local law enforcement later located Reid’s vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
Charging documents allege Reid was initially released with a notice to appear in court but was later arrested after returning to the Montana Rescue Mission.
Reid’s next court appearance is tentatively scheduled for Sept. 3 in Billings, with a trial currently scheduled for Dec. 28.
The charge against Reid is an allegation. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.