Royal Oak Doctor Allegedly Traded Medical Care for Sex with Victims

An Oakland County doctor is at the center of a shocking criminal case, accused of exploiting sex trafficking victims by offering medical care in exchange for sex acts.

Neurologist Among Those Tied to Hotel-Based Trafficking Ring

Dr. Gireesh Velugubanti, a practicing neurologist from Royal Oak, is charged with arranging sex with trafficking victims and buying drugs. Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald calls the case "especially shocking."

According to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, Velugubanti is a suspected customer of the Sonesta Suites trafficking ring, which involves three additional suspects.

Antione Fulgiam, Chanel Rackard, and Sherri Gress are already facing charges for their alleged involvement in the human trafficking operation.

Investigators say incriminating text messages between Dr. Velugubanti and Fulgiam indicate the doctor was “arranging commercial sex” with trafficking victims and purchasing drugs.

In one message, Velugubanti allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with a trafficked sex worker and warned that her access to free medical care could be revoked.

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Prosecutor: Victims Were "Ransomed" for Health Care Access

In a statement to WJBK-TV, Prosecutor McDonald said: “According to police investigations, he effectively ransomed health care in order to exploit one or more victims. The first rule of the medical profession is to ‘do no harm.’ There are few things a doctor can do more harmful than to allegedly expect sex as a condition for care.”

Charges Could Bring 15 Years in Prison

Velugubanti is charged with human trafficking enterprise resulting in injury/commercial sexual activity. He could face up to 15 years in prison and/or a $15,000 fine. He also faces controlled substance charges.

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