Vacaville Man Convicted of Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation of Runaway Teen

A Solano County jury has delivered a swift verdict, finding 32-year-old Michael Edward Allen of Vacaville guilty on multiple felony charges related to the sexual exploitation and human trafficking of a 14-year-old runaway girl. The conviction brings a measure of justice following a disturbing case that highlighted the vulnerabilities of at-risk youth.

Allen was found guilty of sexually exploiting a child, human trafficking, and possession of child pornography.

The charges stem from an investigation initiated after Vacaville police located the missing San Jose teen at Allen's Vacaville residence in April 2023, two months after she had run away from home.

During the trial, evidence presented by Solano County Deputy District Attorney Veronica C. Corcoran revealed a predatory pattern of behavior.

Allen reportedly made contact with the then-14-year-old girl on social media shortly after she left home in February 2023. He lured her to Vacaville by offering her a place to stay, first taking her to a local hotel before moving her into his own home.

Once she was under his roof, Allen subjected the vulnerable teen to sexual exploitation and reportedly provided her with illegal drugs.

The court heard how the defendant capitalized on the girl's desperate situation, manipulating her for his own illicit gain.

This is not Allen's first brush with similar charges. It was revealed that he was also convicted in September 2022 of sexually exploiting another juvenile victim, then 17 years old.

This previous conviction underscores a disturbing history of preying on minors.

The successful prosecution by the Solano County District Attorney's Office sends a strong message regarding the commitment to protect children from exploitation and hold perpetrators accountable. Deputy District Attorney Corcoran's diligent work ensured that justice was served for the victim.

Michael Edward Allen is now facing a significant sentence for his crimes.

He is scheduled for sentencing on June 27, where he could face 15 years to life in state prison, a penalty that reflects the severe nature and long-lasting impact of human trafficking and child exploitation.