LANSING – James Earl Madison-Cranford, 29, was bound over for trial yesterday on charges of human trafficking involving a minor forced into commercial sexual activity, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.   

Madison-Cranford is accused of having engaged in criminal sexual conduct with a minor victim, a teenage runaway he allegedly forced into commercial sexual activity. The State alleges he created an online account offering for sale sex with the minor, set up appointments between other adults and the minor, facilitated logistics for the appointments including her travel, and took the money paid to her. The State further alleges Madison-Cranford was physically abusive towards the victim and when she talked about leaving him, he strangled her and held a knife to her neck, leaving bruises on her face and neck.

This case was initially investigated by the FBI’s Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes (SEMTEC) Task Force. 

“Human trafficking is a uniquely horrific offense, and its perpetrators often prey upon the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Nessel. “I am thankful for our continued partnership with the FBI’s SEMTEC Task Force, and my Department will continue to use the full resources of the law and the State to uproot the scourge of human trafficking from our communities.”  

Information on Attorney General Nessel's Human Trafficking Initiative and the Michigan Human Trafficking Commission can be found on the Department of Attorney General's website.

Madison-Cranford is currently being held at the Oakland County Jail and no further court dates have yet been set. His preliminary examination occurred Monday, July 24th, before Judge Sheila Johnson in the 46th District Court in Southfield. 

Please note: A criminal charge is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The Department does not provide booking photos.  

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