Kansas City, Mo. ? A man accused of promoting the prostitution of 13-year-old twins and their 15-year-old sister has been charged with human trafficking in the first such case in the area, U.S. Atty. Bradley J. Schlozman said Friday.

Don L. Elbert II, 25, of Kansas City, was arrested Wednesday after the oldest sister made a deal with an undercover officer in downtown Kansas City to accept cash in exchange for sex. As uniformed officers arrested her, the twins fled and jumped into a sport utility vehicle, which was later stopped with Elbert inside, Schlozman said.

The teens, who had run away from home, told police they had been working as prostitutes since meeting Elbert at a liquor store a month ago. They said he took their earnings as payment for a place to live, clothes and food, Schlozman said.

He said Elbert did not provide condoms to the teenagers, who have since been reunited with their family in the Kansas City area. Schlozman declined to comment further on the teens or their background.

Schlozman said his office is handling the prosecution because the federal charge carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, which is a lengthier sentence than state charges would yield.

The charges come a month after Schlozman announced the formation of a task force focused on spotting and prosecuting trafficking cases.

Prosecutors are seeking to have Elbert held without bond, citing a criminal history that includes convictions for second-degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child and assault. A hearing is set for Wednesday.