Alabama NIL content director arrested in human trafficking sting

The content director for Yea Alabama, the identify, picture and likeness initiative for Alabama athletics, was arrested Thursday for solicitation of prostitution throughout a human trafficking operation in Shelby County, Alabama.

Robert Aaron Suttles was amongst 15 males arrested in the operation, carried out by Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force. According to court docket information, Suttles is alleged to have paid $100 for sexual exercise. The 49-year-old was launched from jail after posting a $1,000 bond.

“We will not tolerate the victimization of vulnerable women here in Shelby County,” Lt. Clayton Smith, who instructions the duty drive, stated in a press release. “…We have a duty to protect them just like any other citizen.”

Suttles, a former sports activities reporter for The Tuscaloosa News and The Athletic, has overseen content for Yea Alabama since its launch in 2023. A spokesperson for Yea Alabama advised AL.com that Suttles has been suspended and won’t be performing work for the outfit whereas the authorized course of unfolds and an inner investigation additionally takes place.

Yea Alabama’s web site now not lists Suttles on its workers web page.