An Athens man faces distribution and human trafficking charges after being accused of trying to recruit a minor for sex work.

Limestone County Sheriff’s Investigator Kristin King took a report March 25 about the sexual assault of a juvenile. Deputy Stephen Young said King consulted with the Narcotics Unit about the case, because the victim had mentioned 28-year-old Dhalquistiere Eichelberger Jr. “tried to recruit him/her for prostitution.”

Young said an interview was scheduled with the Children Advocacy Center for the juvenile, during which the child said Eichelberger had given them marijuana and discussed the child becoming a prostitute.

“On Friday, the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office conducted a search warrant at a residence on North Clinton Street where Eichelberger Jr. lives,” Young said. “Investigators located almost an ounce of marijuana and recovered several electronic devices.”

Eichelberger is charged with first-degree human trafficking and distribution of a controlled substance. He is being held in the Limestone County Jail with bail set at $10,000 for the distribution charge but not set for the human trafficking charge.

Young said additional charges may be pending as the investigation continues.