On Wednesday, at approximately 2:46 a.m., Hobbs police officers responded to the 600 block of North Marland in reference to a domestic disturbance.
Officers contacted a 22-year-old female who stated she was battered and strangled by Markell Sweargin, 19, of Lubbock after refusing to have sex with an unknown male.
The investigation has revealed that Sweargin attempted to entice the victim in this matter to have sexual intercourse with others in exchange for monetary compensation. When the victim refused to have sex with an unknown male who arrived at the location, Sweargin reportedly became violent, strangling and battering her. After striking and strangling the victim, Sweargin refused to allow the victim to leave.
Sweargin was arrested and charged with aggravated battery against a household member and human trafficking, both third-degree felonies; two counts of false imprisonment and promoting prostitution, both fourth-degree felonies; and possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor.
He is being held in the Lea County Detention Facility on a $23,000 cash/surety bond set by Magistrate Judge Henry.