University of Providence wrestling coach allegedly connected to human trafficking case
Traci Rosenbaum
Cascade County Attorney Josh Racki confirmed Monday that a man whose name was mentioned in court documents in connection with a suspect arrested for human trafficking is that of University of Providence wrestling coach Caleb Schaeffer.
On Wednesday, police arrested Brandon Cameron Sanders, 31, at a Great Falls motel after an employee said he'd seen a male sitting in a vehicle in the parking lot while a female had multiple male guests in one of the motel's rooms.
Sanders was charged with trafficking of persons, aggravated prostitution and property subject to forfeiture - human trafficking, all felonies, as well as misdemeanor drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.
More:Suspected human trafficker arrested at Great Falls motel
When police reviewed security footage from the motel, court documents state they recognized Schaeffer as one of the men visiting the room.
A detective arranged to meet with Schaeffer, who agreed to speak with police.
According to the affidavit, Schaeffer, the longtime wrestling coach at UP, claimed he received a text message earlier in the day from an unknown Illinois phone number that included a nude photo of a female and an inquiry asking whether he "wants some."
Schaeffer told police he arranged to meet the sender at Motel 6 later that day and agreed to purchase oral sex.
As of Monday, Racki said Schaeffer has not been charged in connection to the alleged incident.
The University of Providence did not return calls immediately for comment Monday.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
KFBB, citing a release from UP, said Schaeffer has been placed on administrative leave.
Criminal justice reporter Traci Rosenbaum reports on law enforcement issues for the Tribune. Have ideas or questions for Traci on her beat? Reach her at trosenbaum@greatfallstribune.com or 406-791-1490. Follow her on Twitter @GFTrib_TRosenba.
Support Traci's journalism:Subscribe today and get a special offer
Have a news tip for us? Click here.