A Louisville man, Moises May, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after being convicted of chaining up his girlfriend, Jonna Wilson, and subjecting her to horrific abuse. May’s actions, which included kidnapping, intimidation, and human trafficking, shocked the community.
His claims that Wilson had chained herself up because she was “cheating” were swiftly debunked, leading to his conviction and a sentence that sends a strong message about the state’s commitment to fighting human trafficking and abuse.
The Crime and May’s Claims
Moises May’s actions came to light in 2023 when police discovered Wilson chained to the floor of a second-story bedroom in a home in Louisville’s Park Hill neighborhood. May initially told authorities that Wilson had chained herself up due to her inability to stop cheating on him.
However, evidence quickly disproved his claims. Local detectives testified that there were no signs of self-imprisonment, and the situation appeared to be entirely orchestrated by May.
In addition to chaining Wilson, May had cut off her hair with a machete, initially claiming it was a punishment for losing a bet during a game of checkers. Later, he changed his story, saying that Wilson had asked him to cut her hair after she wanted to dye it, but he refused.
May was also accused of forcing Wilson into sexual slavery, allegedly making her have sex with men for money at least five times. This abuse, combined with his violent control over her, led to his charges of human trafficking, kidnapping, and several other serious offenses.
The Trial and Conviction
May was convicted in May 2024 by a jury of his peers, marking a significant victory in Kentucky’s fight against human trafficking. His conviction under the state’s newly amended human trafficking statute highlights the broadening of the legal definition and penalties surrounding such crimes.
Prosecutors had recommended a sentence of 35 years, but the judge sentenced May to 30 years, with a requirement to serve at least 20% of the sentence before being eligible for parole.
Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerina D. Whethers praised the work of the Special Victims Unit prosecutors in securing justice for Wilson, emphasizing that “human trafficking will never have a place in our community.”
The case marks a crucial step forward in the ongoing efforts to combat domestic abuse and human trafficking in the state of Kentucky.
May’s Sentencing and the Impact on Wilson
At the time of the sentencing, May’s actions were described as “calculated and terrifying,” and his abuse was seen as a deeply emotional case for all involved. Wilson, the mother of May’s daughter, was subjected to extreme cruelty and control, and the rescue footage of her being freed from the chains revealed the traumatic conditions she endured.
“Thank you so much,” Wilson can be heard saying on the body camera footage released by the police, a stark contrast to the horror she had just endured.
Wilson’s brave survival and the subsequent conviction of her abuser have provided her family and community with some sense of justice. Although May has been held accountable for his crimes, Wilson’s recovery is likely to be a long and difficult journey.
The case highlights the profound effects of domestic abuse and human trafficking, particularly when the victim is isolated and controlled by their abuser.
Moises May’s conviction and sentencing for the brutal abuse and trafficking of Jonna Wilson is a reminder of the extreme dangers posed by manipulative and violent abusers.
The case serves as an important milestone in the fight against human trafficking and domestic violence, sending a clear message that such despicable acts will not be tolerated.
As May begins his 30-year sentence, Wilson’s courage in surviving and speaking out against her abuser will hopefully inspire others who are trapped in similar situations to seek help and escape from abuse.
