Raleigh Woman Sentenced to 18 Years for Sex Trafficking 12-Year-Old Girl

NEW BERN, NC – A 12-year-old girl went missing, was found overdosing in a Raleigh hotel, and later discovered to be a victim of sex trafficking—advertised online by the very people who exploited her. Now, one of those responsible is headed to federal prison.

Brieania Shidae Pinnock, 23, was sentenced to 216 months (18 years) in prison for conspiring to traffic a minor and producing child pornography. She pleaded guilty on August 15, 2024, and was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan.

Horrific Discovery at a Raleigh Hotel

On June 23, 2022, law enforcement received a report of a missing 12-year-old girl. That night, officers responded to an overdose at the Budgetel Inn and Suites in Raleigh, where they found the missing child unresponsive. She was revived and transported to the hospital.

Further investigation revealed that the victim had been advertised for commercial sex on two websites, with explicit photos falsely listing her as 19 years old.

Accomplice Awaiting Sentencing

Authorities identified Trinity Sky Alston as an accomplice. Phone records proved that Pinnock and Alston were fully aware of the victim’s true age as they coordinated the sex trafficking scheme. Alston pleaded guilty on March 13, 2024, and faces sentencing in April.

Federal Investigation & Prosecution

Raleigh Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Peaden.

For case details, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or search Case No. 5:23-cr-00210-FL-1 on PACER.

Pinnock Photo: Raleigh Police Department

Alston Photo: Sampson County Sheriff’s Office