The NOPD today (September 9, 2026) announced the arrest of two suspects in the ongoing investigation of two alleged human trafficking operations.
Marcus Davis (pictured, black male, DOB: 06-23-2004) was arrested by the NOPD and U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force on August 14, 2026, in the 2000 block of Lamanche Street for one count each on the following charges in this investigation:
- LA R.S. 14:46.2, relative to Human Sex Trafficking
- LA R.S. 14:43, relative to Third Degree Rape
- LA R.S. 14:44.1, relative to Second Degree Kidnapping
Renee Schulze (pictured, white female, DOB: 12-11-1997) was arrested in Harrison County, Miss. and transferred to NOPD custody on July 31 for one count each on the following charges in this investigation:
- LA R.S. 14:46.3, relative to Child Sex Trafficking
- LA R.S. 14:92, relative to Contributing to Delinquency of Juveniles, in relation to an incident reported in March of 2025.
These arrests were made as part of Operation Safe Voice, a partnership between the NOPD’s Special Victims Division, Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Marshals and Homeland Security Investigations focusing on arresting and prosecuting those involved in perpetuating human trafficking and the targeting, exploitation or abuse of victims in New Orleans.
These agencies also partner with assistance programs including Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans, Unbound Now, Eden Centers for Hope and Healing and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to offer services to victims to report these crimes as well as to find help.
Michelle Jones, chief of the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Special Victims Unit, said that her office has been working with NOPD Special Victims Section Det. Mario Bravo since 2025 on this investigation.
“This has truly been a coordinated effort between (these) partners,” Jones said. “We want to make sure that the survivors know that we’re here for you. We will tirelessly fight for justice for you and help you to start the healing process. We want to help you and assure you that you’re in good hands.”
Through investigation that included information obtained through tips submitted to Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans, NOPD Special Victims Section Sex Crimes Unit detectives determined that both Davis and Schulze had direct involvement in human trafficking operations that targeted vulnerable young women, including juveniles.
Shulze was arrested on the aforementioned charges after detectives determined her involvement in the trafficking operations. She also faces similar charges in Mississippi.
After further investigation that included interviews of additional known victims, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Davis on the aforementioned trafficking, rape and kidnapping charges. He was also booked on outstanding arrest warrants for domestic violence incidents and for possession of a stolen firearm.
NOPD Deputy Superintendent Nicholas Gernon said that Special Victims Division detectives believe there are additional victims in this case and are seeking to speak with them.
“This is a call to all our survivors out there.” Gernon said. “If these suspects hurt you or forced you into this trafficking, we’re asking you to come forward not just for the arrest or the prosecution, but to begin the healing. There is safety in numbers.”
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Anyone with additional information that can assist in this ongoing investigation is urged to contact NOPD Special Victims Division Sex Crimes Unit detectives at 504-658-5523. Those wishing to report information anonymously can do so by calling Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans at 504-822-1111. Tips can also be submitted online by visiting https://www.crimestoppersgno.org.
Anyone who may be a victim of human trafficking, exploitation or sexual abuse and is seeking help can also contact the following assistance agencies to speak with staff 24 hours a day:
- Unbound Now: 504-285-9865
- Eden Centers for Hope and Healing: 504-407-0943
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678