Head of Minnesota college Republicans accused in federal sex-trafficking investigation

The head of a chapter of the Minnesota College Republicans is now being accused in a sex-trafficking operation that included the arrest of a GOP fundraiser.

Officials in Minnesota said Gisela Medina was charged in Florida last week and she faces the same charges announced against Anton Lazzaro. Lazzaro was federally charged with sex trafficking of a minor, attempt to commit sex trafficking and obstruction of justice.

Lazzaro helped fun several Republican politicians and Medina is the head of the College Republicans at the University of St. Thomas.

According to the Department of Justice, Lazzaro conspired with others between May 2020 and December 2020 to recruit and solicit six children to engage in sex acts.

Investigators say there may be more victims and anyone with information on the case is asked to contact (763) 569-8000.

After news of Medina’s arrest Jennifer Carnahan, chairwoman of the Republican Party of Minnesota, released a statement.

“The arrest and charges involving Ms. Gisela Castro Medina, in conjunction with Thursday’s arrest and sex trafficking charges of Mr. Anton Lazzaro are heinous and disturbing. Convictions of these charges warrants punishment to the fullest extent of the law and we fully anticipate justice will be served.

The statement also notes that the Republican Party of Minnesota has no jurisdiction over the Minnesota College Republican, or the chapter at the University of St. Thomas.