Marlborough Resident Charged with Attempted Sex Trafficking After $150 Offer to a Supposed Minor

In a case that’s rattling the Marlborough community, 39‑year‑old James Gill was formally indicted Thursday by a federal grand jury in Worcester on a single count of attempted sex trafficking of a minor.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Massachusetts, Gill’s alleged crime began when he responded to an online ad that was actually posted by undercover federal agents on a site commonly used for commercial‑sex advertising. In the ensuing text messages and a brief phone call, an agent posing as the girl’s sister told Gill a 15‑year‑old girl was “available” for paid sexual acts.

Gill allegedly offered $150, asked for photographs of the supposed minor, and even sent a nude picture of himself in hopes of securing the encounter. He also mentioned he intended to record the meeting. The FBI says he was waiting at a pre‑arranged hotel when officers moved in and took him into custody.

It’s worth noting this wasn’t Gill’s first run‑in with law enforcement. State police first arrested him in April, and a federal complaint was lodged in July. The recent indictment, however, carries far more severe consequences.

If convicted, the charge brings a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in federal prison, with the possibility of life imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a fine that could reach $250,000. An arraignment date has not yet been set.

The case underscores the ongoing vigilance of federal investigators in targeting online sex‑trafficking schemes, especially those that prey on minors. Local authorities say they will continue to work closely with federal partners to protect vulnerable youth in the area.