5 charged with trafficking teen from New York to New Jersey

SOUTH HACKENSACK, N.J. (AP) -- Five people face human trafficking charges in New Jersey after they allegedly conspired to force a 16-year-old New York girl into prostitution.

Acting New Jersey Attorney General John Hoffman says an indictment made public Monday accuses the defendants of trafficking the girl between New York and New Jersey. The defendants include a New Jersey couple and the man's adult son.

The five defendants also face counts of conspiracy, child endangerment and promoting prostitution of a minor. All five could face life sentences if convicted.

Authorities say the defendants conspired to traffic the girl from Brooklyn to motels in South Hackensack and Clifton. The investigation began after South Hackensack police found an online ad for "escort services" with a photo of a "very young-looking female."