Houston man guilty of sex trafficking of minor

HOUSTON Barry Lernard Davis, aka "Sir Lewis," 34, was found guilty of one count each of sex trafficking of a minor, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity as well as coercion and enticement of an adult to engage in criminal sexual activity.

Testimony at the three-day trial revealed Davis lured the victims with promises of shelter, food and material possessions. The first victim, then a 16-year-old minor, testified she was photographed nude for the purpose of advertisements for prostitution posted online. She said that at the time of the incidents, Davis not only knew she was 16, but also that she was pregnant.

Testifying at trial, the adult victim recounted the brutal beatings she suffered at the hands of Davis, including an incident where he broke her nose and forced her to "turn a trick" minutes later. She told the jury that Davis put a gun to her head and told her that if she ever left him he would hunt her down and kill her.

Authorities say Davis forced both victims to be tattooed with either his name or initials, a common practice of pimps known as "branding."

Forensic analysis revealed photos of both victims on Davis' computer and hotel records verified that he traveled out of state with the victims.

Davis could face up to 70 years in prison and a maximum of a life term of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.