An aide to Louisiana Republican Congressman Clay Higgins was arrested Saturday on two charges of pandering, according to the Lafayette Parish jail records.

47-year-old Jerod Prunty of Lafayette was arrested at his home Saturday night, according to Lafayette Parish Sheriff Spokesperson Lt. John Mowell.

Mowell confirmed with News 10 that Prunty’s arrest is connected to the numerous arrest made Wednesday, February 13 when 8 people were charged for their alleged involvement in prostitution and possible human trafficking in the Lafayette Parish area.

KLFY has confirmed that Prunty worked in the Lafayette Congressional Offices of Congressman Clay Higgins.

Congressman Higgins office sent this statement to KLFY.

“We are shocked and saddened to learn of allegations against Jerod. His arrest is deeply troubling. Jerod has been placed on administrative leave, pending investigation and adjudication. Should our office be approached during the investigation, we will cooperate fully. We are a Constitutionalist office, thus we have full faith in our judicial process.



The Congressman has complete confidence in the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office. Investigations like this are complex, and although we are shocked by this, we have faith in our judicial system and the authorities involved.

Our office will move forward without interruption. Our dedication to service is stronger than any challenge.”

Prunty’s combined bond on the two charges of pandering was $25,000 and jail records show him as not in jail as of Sunday.

He is scheduled to appear in a Lafayette Parish courtroom to answer to the charges, Tuesday February 19, at 8 a.m.