Nursing Assistant Held Hostage For 2 Weeks, Lured By Fake Craigslist Job Ad

A recent incident in Gilmer County, West Virginia, serves as a chilling reminder of the potential dangers healthcare professionals face when seeking employment through online platforms. Michael Florence, 54, has been arrested after allegedly luring a nursing assistant to his property under false pretenses and holding her against her will.

A Fake Job Posting

Florence used Craigslist to post a deceptive job listing seeking a nursing assistant. A Florida-based nursing assistant responded to the advertisement, believing it to be a legitimate opportunity. She traveled across state lines to West Virginia, only to discover upon arrival that the situation was far from what had been promised.

A Dangerous Trap

The victim had traveled by bus from Florida to West Virginia, where Florence picked her up in Sutton. Without cell phone service, she “did not know where she was in the state of West Virginia,” according to law enforcement. 

Upon arriving at Florence’s property, the victim was confined to a building that lacked basic amenities. According to the complaint, the building “did not have any running water or a bathroom,” and the victim “was forced to use a bucket” for toileting needs. Over the two weeks she remained on the property and became afraid to leave. She told law enforcement, “he would yell at her, throw rocks at the building she was staying in, and would stand outside on a regular basis so she couldn’t leave.” The victim feared for her life, believing Florence might harm her. 

 

A Distress Call and Rescue

The situation took a critical turn on November 11, when the victim managed to make a distress call. Her call for help prompted a swift response from law enforcement, specifically officers from the Gilmer County detachment of the West Virginia State Police.

The police intervened, rescuing the victim and preventing further harm. Florence was arrested at the scene.

Charges Against Michael Florence

Michael Florence faces charges of human trafficking and assault against a healthcare provider. He is currently being held at Central Regional Jail, with his bail set at $201,800.