09-04-2025
'Send me the other half': Midland inmate accused of 'pimping' from jail
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Midland man is facing multiple felony charges after investigators say he promoted prostitution while incarcerated in the Midland County Jail.
According to an arrest affidavit, 35-year-old Jovan Paul Thomas is accused of facilitating prostitution through recorded jail phone calls, during which he allegedly coordinated payments and services with a 19-year-old woman. The woman reportedly sent Thomas money earned through prostitution while he was behind bars.
On April 7, 2025, a peace officer reviewing jail calls discovered that Thomas had instructed the woman to 'send me the other half' of a $275 payment. Financial records showed money transfers to Thomas on several dates in January, supporting the officer's claim that Thomas profited from prostitution while incarcerated.
The woman involved reportedly told investigators that she does not report any legal income. A report from the Texas Workforce Commission confirmed she had no record of employment.
The affidavit states that Thomas acted as a 'pimp,' receiving money under the agreement that it would be used in the furtherance of prostitution. He is accused of soliciting the woman to engage in sexual conduct for compensation.
Thomas now faces a third-degree felony charge for promotion of prostitution under Texas Penal Code 43.03(b).
Court records show Thomas is also facing several drug-related charges in Midland County, including two first-degree felonies for manufacture/delivery of controlled substances in Penalty Group 1 and Penalty Group 2.
Additional charges include possession of controlled substances in Penalty Groups 1 and 2 in quantities between 1 to 4 grams, both third-degree felonies.
Thomas has five pending felony charges in total. His bonds range from $1,500 to $150,000, with a cumulative bond amount exceeding $425,000. As of April 8, 2025, he remains in custody pending disposition of the charges.
His listed address is in Rosharon, Texas, and his attorney of record is Aaron Eckman.
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