Minneapolis man indicted in child sex trafficking conspiracy

A Minneapolis man has been indicted on federal child sex trafficking charges.

Thirty-year-old Anton Joseph Lazzaro a republican political operative is accused of conspiring with others to recruit and solicit six minors to engage in commercial sex acts, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

He’s charged with five counts of sex trafficking of minors, one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors, one count of attempted sex trafficking of a minor and three counts of obstruction.

Lazzaro was arrested Thursday and will remain in custody until his formal detention hearing on Monday.

Republican Party of Minnesota Chairwoman Jennifer Carnahan released the following statement:

"If the allegations against Mr. Anton Lazzaro are true, this is an abhorrent act that we condemn in the highest possible terms. The Republican Party of Minnesota will be donating the contributions that Mr. Lazzaro has given our organization to charity. Sex trafficking is a heinous act that preys on victims of all ages, races, and backgrounds, and warrants severe punishment by our judicial system. A full investigation is necessary to ensure due process is provided to all parties involved."

Authorities said evidence leads them to believe there may be additional victims in this case, and anyone with information is asked to call the FBI’s Minneapolis Division at 763-569-8000.