The federal sex trafficking trial of the Alexander brothers took a startling turn this week when, reportedly, the name of actor Zac Efron surfaced in testimony. Prosecutors allege the brothers used their connections to famous individuals to lure victims into dangerous situations.
Zac Efron’s name surfaces in federal sex trafficking trial
The reported reference to Zac Efron surfaced as the government presented its first witness in the trial against real estate figures Tal, Oren, and Alon Alexander. Federal prosecutors allege the brothers used their social status, wealth, and access to celebrity circles to attract and manipulate women. The case is being heard in a Manhattan federal courtroom, where jurors are evaluating allegations from multiple women who claim the brothers committed rape, sexual assault, and sex trafficking.
Testifying under the pseudonym Katie Moore, the witness reportedly told jurors she was invited to what she believed would be a dream come true party at Efron’s New York City apartment in 2012. She was offered alcohol at Efron’s apartment and later took what she believed was Molly with Tal Alexander and a friend. She said the group later went to a nightclub, where she consumed another drink. Moore testified that she remembered little afterward until waking up naked in a separate apartment with Alon Alexander also naked and standing over her.
Moore told the court she attempted to get up but was pushed back down. She testified that she said, “I don’t want to have sex with you.” According to her account, Alon allegedly responded, “You already did,” before assaulting her again. Moore emphasized during testimony that she had minimal interaction with Efron that night and stated clearly that she is not accusing the actor of any misconduct.
Moore is one of dozens of women who have accused the Alexander brothers of sexual violence and trafficking. In opening statements, Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Smyser told jurors that the defendants “masqueraded as party boys when really they were predators.” The Alexander brothers have denied the allegations (via TMZ).
