Who's in the News?

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️13-year-old rescued from suspected sex and drug trafficking house in west El Paso
EL PASO, Texas  — Texas and New Mexico law enforcement rescued a 13-year-old child from a house in west El Paso suspected of being used for sex and drug trafficking. The Texas DPS, along with Texas Highway Patrol Troopers and El Paso and New Mexico Border Patrol agents discovered a 13-year-old child locked in the bedroom of a suspected stash house in early August. According to authorities, the suspected stash house had a makeshift door with a lock in the main hallway and rooms with coded locks.
» https://kfoxtv.com/news/local/13-year-old-rescued-from-suspected-sex-and-drug-trafficking-house-in-west-el-paso-texas-dps-border-patrol-new-mexico-highway-troopers-fentanyl-methamphetamine
» https://www.ktsm.com/crime/texas-department-of-public-safety-child-rescued-from-suspected-stash-house/ 
» https://www.dps.texas.gov/news/dps-rescues-child-suspected-stash-house-west-texas-region
»

▫️Operation Summer Lovin: At least 4 arrested in child sex crime operation, Ga. police say
CAMDEN COUNTY, Ga. — According to police, each individual physically traveled to the Summer Lovin’ operational area hoping to have sexual contact with a minor. During the operation, over 20 contacts were made with individuals hoping to have sexual relations with a minor. Only four arrests have been made at this point in the investigation.
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/least-4-arrested-summer-lovin-child-sex-crime-operation-ga-police-say/KILWRBJZSRESFFD3246HP4IFLY/
» https://www.wjcl.com/article/4-charged-more-arrests-possible-after-sexual-exploitation-of-children-case-in-coastal-georgia/44893414# 

▫️Seven Arrested in Sex Offender and Child Crimes Joint Operation | U.S. Marshals Service
Concord, NH – The Concord Police Department (CPD) and U.S. Marshals Service – NH Joint Fugitive Task Force (JFTF) are pleased to announce the results of an operation focused on locating and apprehending individuals wanted by CPD for sex offender registration violations and offenses against children. As a result of this surge operation, seven individuals were located and arrested.
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/seven-arrested-sex-offender-and-child-crimes-joint-operation 

▫️Three arrested for human trafficking in Oxnard
OXNARD, Calif. – The Ventura County Sheriff's Office executed a multi-location search warrant at two businesses and two residences associated with alleged human trafficking and pimping on Aug. 4 resulting in the arrest of three people. The multi-location search warrant was issued after an investigation of two Oxnard businesses, VIP Therapy Massage and Blue Moon Spa, that began in March of this year detail Ventura County Sheriff's Office.
https://keyt.com/news/ventura-county/2023/08/23/three-arrested-for-human-trafficking-in-oxnard/ 

▫️Grand jury indicts former FBI contractor for child sex crimes 
ARLINGTON, Va. — A former FBI contractor was indicted Wednesday on child sex crimes by a federal grand jury in Virginia. According to the Department of Justice, 26-year-old Brett Janes is accused of grooming a dozen young boys using chat apps like Discord and Snapchat. Court documents detail claims that Janes told dozens of boys that he worked for a U.S. intelligence agency before threatening suicide if the boys did not continue to speak with him.  One of the victims, identified as a 13-year-old boy, reportedly met Janes through a first-person shooter video game called Valorant.
» https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/former-fbi-contractor-indicted-child-sex-crime-charges/65-2f948e42-feb6-4b06-bdb7-124d497c1a8f
» https://www.hstoday.us/fbi/former-fbi-contractor-charged-with-child-exploitation-offenses/ 

▫️3 children rescued from Orlando apartment building following SWAT standoff
ORLANDO, Fla. - A five-hour standoff between Orlando police officers and a person who was barricaded inside a unit of a residential complex in downtown Orlando has ended. Officers were able to retrieve the three children from the apartment unharmed following negotiations. Two people were arrested, but no other details were immediately released.
» https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/orlando-apartment-building-evacuated-as-police-respond-to-barricaded-person      (VIDEO)
» https://www.wesh.com/article/orlando-police-standoff/44872257#
»

▫️Wanted: Cleveland man, labeled sexually violent predator, on the run
CLEVELAND, Ohio  -This week’s Cuyahoga’s Most Wanted features a Cleveland man on the run from a 2013 charge for allegedly having sexual contact with a minor. According to Crime Stoppers of Cuyahoga County, Jose Vazquez failed to show for his arraignment on the charge of gross sexual imposition. Court records show the victim in this case was 13 years-old at the time of the attack.
https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/08/24/wanted-cleveland-man-labeled-sexually-violent-predator-run/ 

▫️UP school responds to arrest of former staff member in undercover child sex crime sting
NEWBERRY, Mich. - One of the seven Upper Michigan men arrested in an undercover child sex crime operation was employed at a U.P. school. Vincent Roop, 61, of Newberry was arrested as a result of a three-day undercover operation last week in Forsyth Township in which all men arrived at a location to meet a decoy officer who they believed was a 15-year-old.
https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/2023/08/23/up-school-responds-arrest-former-staff-member-undercover-child-sex-crime-sting/ 

▫️Former church children's director, kindergarten teacher charged with child sex crimes
BURKE COUNTY, N.C.  — A former kindergarten teacher and senior pastor at a North Carolina church was arrested and charged Tuesday with a child sex crime. The Burke County Sheriff’s Office said Aaron Doyle Mirtsching, 41, of Morganton, was charged with three counts of third-degree sexual exploitation of a minor following a cyber-tip that was received from Internet Crimes Against Children.
https://midmichigannow.com/news/nation-world/former-pastor-kindergarten-teacher-charged-with-child-sex-crimes-morganton-north-carolina-burke-county-sheriffs-office-thrive-church-new-dimensions-charter-school 

▫️DC police search for man wanted for burglary and sexual abuse
D.C. police are looking for a man accused of breaking into a Northeast apartment and sexually assaulting a person inside. FOX 5's Shomari Stone has the story.
https://news.yahoo.com/dc-police-search-man-wanted-023121783.html      (VIDEO) 

▫️Louisiana man arrested for multiple sex crimes involving children
GRANT PARISH, La. – In June 2023, Louisiana State Police Special Victim’s Unit (LSP SVU) began an investigation involving 58-year-old Earnest Wehunt Jr. for sexual battery of a juvenile. During the initial investigation, it was discovered that Wehunt Jr. had allegedly committed sexual battery of a juvenile and aggravated crimes against nature. Investigators also learned that there were other potential victims. The public plays an important role in identifying suspects accused of these crimes and is urged to report criminal or suspicious activity. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through an anonymous reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be found by visiting www.la-safe.org and clicking on the “Suspicious Activity” link.
https://www.wkrg.com/state-regional/louisiana-man-arrested-for-multiple-sex-crimes-involving-children/ 

▫️Marshall County Man Charged with Sexual Battery, Rape of a Child
MARSHALL COUNTY – An investigation by special agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation into allegations of sexual battery against a juvenile has resulted in the indictment and arrest of a Lewisburg firefighter. At the request of 17th Judicial District Attorney General Robert Carter, in September 2021, agents began investigating allegations that a juvenile had been sexually assaulted by Justin Barron, of Lewisburg. During the course of the investigation, agents developed information that Barron had sexual contact with an underage female during the summer of 2020.
https://tbinewsroom.com/2023/08/23/marshall-county-man-charged-with-sexual-battery-rape-of-a-child/ 

▫️Teen charged in North County home invasion, kidnapping of toddler
ST. LOUIS, Mo.  - An 18-year-old is facing charges in connection with a home invasion and kidnapping that happened in North County in early August. Kendal White, of St. Charles, is charged with child kidnapping, first-degree assault, first-degree burglary, four counts of armed criminal action and endangering the welfare of a child.
https://www.kmov.com/2023/08/23/teen-charged-kidnapping-toddler-home-invasion/ 

▫️Killeen Man Accused Of Assaulting A Child Is Arrested in Nevada
Jacob Murphy received an interview with a Killeen Police Department conducted an investigation and denied any allegations says the Killeen Police Department. Once the victim's family hear about the allegations, the family confronted Jake, which led him to leave the area, but on August 15, 2023, the Bell County District Attorney’s Office charged Jacob with sexual assault of a child and the justice of peace Gregory Johnson decided to issue a warrant for Jacob’s arrest.
https://mykiss1031.com/killeen-man-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-a-child-is-arrested-in-nevada/ 

▫️Leesburg Man Sexually Assaulted Missing Child, Misled Cops
LEESBURG, VA — A Leesburg man sexually assaulted a missing child, hid the child from authorities, and misled investigators earlier this year, the Leesburg Police Department said. Authorities said the missing child was eventually recovered safely. Police officials did not provide any additional information about the age or gender of the victim. The police department identified the man as 20-year-old Brandon Estrada De Leon, a 20-year-old from Leesburg. He is charged with three counts of rape, one count of abduction, and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
https://patch.com/virginia/leesburg/leesburg-man-sexually-assaulted-missing-child-misled-cops-police 

▫️Jailed former Washington County teacher faces new allegations of child sex abuse
A former longtime Washington County music teacher now serving life in prison is facing new charges of alleged aggravated sexual abuse of a child. Curtis Payne, 64, who taught in the Washington County School District for more than 30 years, was arrested in 2018 and eventually sentenced to four consecutive life terms in prison after more than 30 accusers stepped forward to say he had abused them. This week, he was charged in 3rd District Court with 13 additional counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child and rape of a child, all first-degree felonies, stemming from alleged encounters with a girl in Salt Lake County between 2014 and 2017 while she was between the ages of four and seven.
https://www.thespectrum.com/story/news/2023/08/24/former-washington-county-teacher-faces-new-allegations-of-child-sex-abuse/70668120007/ 

▫️Second NYC schools employee arrested this week for sex with a minor
A Queens middle school dean was arrested Tuesday and charged with rape, criminal sex act and child endangerment for allegedly having sex with a 14-year-old boy, according to police. Melissa Rockensies, 33, was taken into custody around 10:30 a.m. at the 112th precinct stationhouse in Queens, according to the NYPD. She was the dean of leadership and student support at Corona Arts and Sciences Academy, according to the school’s website.
https://gothamist.com/news/second-nyc-schools-employee-arrested-this-week-for-sex-with-a-minor-police-say 

▫️East Texas man faces life sentence for sex trafficking in several states
MARION COUNTY, Texas  – A Marion County man has been convicted of federal sex trafficking charges, U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs announced. On Wednesday, 40-year-old Corey Johnson pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. From March 2020 to September 2020, Johnson was found to be engaged in trafficking at least three victims in Texas, Louisiana, Tennessee, New York and California, according to information presented in court.
https://www.ketk.com/news/crime-public-safety/east-texas-man-faces-life-sentence-for-sex-trafficking-in-several-states/ 

▫️Noncitizen wanted for rape of a minor in Ecuador removed
DENVER — Officers with Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Denver removed a noncitizen fugitive wanted in Ecuador Aug. 17, 2023. Rolando Vladimir Larrea-Flores, 51, is wanted in Ecuador for rape of a minor. He was flown from Denver International Airport to Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and handed over to local authorities.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/noncitizen-wanted-rape-minor-ecuador-removed 

▫️Lawsuit settled over widespread abuse of former students at shuttered West Virginia boarding school
CHARLESTON, W.Va.  - A second lawsuit that alleged widespread sexual, physical and mental abuse at a now-closed West Virginia boarding school for troubled youths has been settled for about $50 million. Attorneys for 32 plaintiffs described what happened to children over decades at the former Miracle Meadows School in Salem as gruesome and unfathomable.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12438505/Lawsuit-settled-widespread-abuse-former-students-shuttered-West-Virginia-boarding-school.html

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️‘One last video’: Police say a 12-year-old girl was trafficked in exchange for meth
A man is accused of trafficking a teenage girl, providing her drugs in exchange for sex. Martin Delarosa Jr., 33, is charged with sexual assault of a child, continuous sexual abuse of a child and sexual performance by a child. His bail totals more than $450,000.  He was arrested in June, but two child sex trafficking charges were added Wednesday.
https://www.expressnews.com/news/article/martin-delarosa-sex-trafficking-18326434.php 

▫️Man accused of sexually abusing NYC girl, 5, caught by good Samaritan
A good Samaritan rescued a 5-year-old girl who was allegedly kidnapped and sexually assaulted by an elderly man her mother left her with in Queens on Tuesday, according to new court documents. The eagled-eyed witness spotted the suspect, identified as 75-year-old Franz Villa, with the child inside 74th Street – Roosevelt Avenue station and leaped into action. The straphanger recognized the pair from a city-wide alert about the missing girl, who was kidnapped after her mother allowed Villa to watch her daughter when she ran into him at a grocery store in Jackson Heights. She followed the pair and then snatched the young girl away from the creep before screaming to nearby police for assistance, according to the criminal complaint against Villa.
https://nypost.com/2023/08/24/man-accused-of-sexually-abusing-nyc-girl-5-caught-by-good-samaritan/ 

▫️Human trafficking arrests in Williamsport
WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — Police in Williamsport say Jennifer Gibbs, Allen Frazier and another person were grooming two young girls to perform sex acts. Officers say the duo was planning to sexually exploit the 12- and 16-year-old for money and drugs. Gibbs faces trafficking, prostitution and child endangerment charges. She was arraigned and returned to Lycoming County Prison in lieu of $125,000 bail. Frazier has been charged with trafficking and drug possession. He is currently detained in State Prison on a parole violation and should be arraigned on these charges in the next few days.
https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/lycoming-county/human-trafficking-arrests-in-williamsport/523-9b00d538-1bf7-4523-8c60-fea39a8292fb 

▫️Pleasant Hill Police Say Suspect Charged in Attempted Sexual Abuse of Minor
On August 16, 2023 Peter DIGANGI (age 65 of Pleasant Hill, CA) engaged in an explicit online conversation and sent obscene materials to an undercover agent who was posing as a 13 year old boy on a social media/dating application. DIGANGI arranged to meet with who he believed to be a 13 year old boy and was arrested by police upon arrival. A search warrant for DIGANGI’s home and electronic devices was granted by a Superior Court magistrate. If you have any questions, tips, or believe you may be a victim in a case such as this, please contact PHPD Investigations at 925-288-4600 or PDInvestigations@Pleasanthillpd.org.
https://contracosta.news/2023/08/24/pleasant-hill-police-say-suspect-charged-in-attempted-sexual-abuse-of-minor/ 

▫️Abandoned children found with note rescued near U.S.-Mexico border
EAGLE PASS, Texas - Authorities in Texas say two children were found abandoned near the Rio Grande this week. Texas Department of Public Safety Lt. Chris Olivarez shared photos of the children on Wednesday. According to Olivarez, the two children from Mexico, ages 4 and 7, were found with a note that gave the name and address of someone in Alabama. DPS officials said they’ve recovered four unaccompanied children over the last 24 hours in Eagle Pass. The team said it also has rescued over 900 children from human smuggling, trafficking or being abandoned since they started Operation Lone Star.
» https://www.wjhg.com/2023/08/25/abandoned-children-found-with-note-rescued-near-us-mexico-border-authorities-say/
» https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/2023/08/25/abandoned-children-found-with-note-rescued-near-us-mexico-border-authorities-say/ 

▫️Number of unaccompanied minors crossing border spikes in a month
TEMPE, Ariz. — The number of unaccompanied children arriving at the southern border is at its peak since December 2022. According to federal statistics, there was a 73% rise in unaccompanied minors crossing the southern border compared to June. This is a significant increase from one month ago, when there were only 7,502 children in custody.
https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/immigration/border-coverage/number-of-unaccompanied-minors-crossing-border-spikes-in-a-month/ 

▫️Alton Charles Jackson convicted of trafficking child, sentenced to 45 years while skipping last day of trial in Harris County
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - A man skipped his final day of trial in Harris County, where he would ultimately be convicted and sentenced to decades in prison for child sex crimes. Alton Charles Jackson, 43, was convicted by a jury of trafficking of a child prohibited conduct and compelling prostitution of someone under 18. He was sentenced to 45 years in prison and will not have the possibility of parole. Anyone with information on Jackson or Allen's whereabouts is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
https://abc13.com/child-trafficking-alton-charles-jackson-wanted-man-skips-trial-harris-county-district-attorneys-office/13696363/ 

▫️Three Women Arrested for Human Trafficking and Operating Sex Brothels Out of Spa & Massage Businesses in Ventura County
As a result of the investigation, detectives developed probable cause to arrest Silvia Diaz and probable cause to arrest Claudia Gonzalez for a violation of California Penal Code Sections 236.1 – Human Trafficking, 266h – Pimping, and 266i – Pandering. Detectives also investigated Blue Moon Spa, an additional suspected IMB, located in the 700 block of S. A Street, Oxnard, California. Detectives learned there was commercial sex occurring throughout the day at this location as well. Detectives developed probable cause to arrest the owner of Blue Moon Spa, Irma Mendoza. As a result of the investigation, Diaz, Gonzalez, and Mendoza were arrested for the above listed charges and booked into the Ventura County Sheriff’s Main Jail with a bail of $900,000. Victim advocates were on scene and spoke with additional potential victims.
https://goldrushcam.com/sierrasuntimes/index.php/news/california/48985-three-women-arrested-for-human-trafficking-and-operating-sex-brothels-out-of-spa-massage-businesses-in-ventura-county 

▫️Police: Man wanted, accused of soliciting sexual conduct with minors
HEALDTON, Okla.  - Healdton Police are asking for the public’s help finding a man accused of soliciting sexual conduct with minors. According to police reports, an arrest warrant has been issued for Jeromy Dewayne McAdams, 31.
https://www.kxii.com/2023/08/24/police-man-wanted-accused-soliciting-sexual-conduct-with-minors/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Former New York police chief arrested for allegedly soliciting sex worker
James Burke, a former police chief of the Suffolk County Police Department in New York, was arrested on charges of soliciting a sex worker and exposing himself at a park. Burke was also recently accused of setting back the Gilglo Beach murder investigation by refusing FBI help.
» https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/former-suffolk-county-police-chief-arrested-for-soliciting-sex-worker-at-park-source/4613527/      (VIDEO)
» https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp-video/mmvo191539269716      (VIDEO)
» https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/james-burke-arrested-soliciting-sex/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Woman allegedly kidnapped by fake Uber driver rescued after slipping note to gas station customer
A woman's quick thinking saved her after she was kidnapped, police said. Police in Yavapai County, Arizona said that the woman, who has not been identified, was abducted from a car dealership in Phoenix, Arizona at about 7 a.m. local time on Aug. 21. Jacob Wilhoit, 41, allegedly wore a wig and pretended to be an Uber driver, and once the woman got in his car, he restrained her and began driving towards Las Vegas. Wilhoit was booked on charges of harassment, threatening and intimidating, aggravated assault, unlawful imprisonment, kidnapping, and "several other assault charges," the sheriff's office said.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/news/woman-allegedly-kidnapped-by-fake-uber-driver-rescued-after-slipping-note-to-gas-station-customer-arizona/
» https://www.aol.com/abducted-woman-rescued-slipping-note-022328882.html 

▫️Woman arrested for child sex abuse found on Nanny website
STILLWATER, Okla. – A woman who was arrested Tuesday in Stillwater for having child pornography and committing child sexual abuse is listed for hire on a website that brings babysitters to families in need. Police say 19-year-old Ashlee Cheatham was arrested after her boyfriend looked through her phone that morning while she was asleep and found disturbing pictures and videos of a child.
https://kfor.com/news/local/woman-arrested-for-child-sex-abuse-found-on-nanny-website/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Haiti kidnap victim speaks out
The New Hampshire nurse who was kidnapped and later freed by a notorious Haitian gang now says she holds “no grudges” against her former captors. ABC News’ Derricke Dennis has more.

▫️Migrant sex offender sentenced for entering U.S. illegally 9 times
McALLEN, Texas — A migrant has been sentenced to over three years in prison for illegally entering the United States for the ninth time, Justice Department officials said. Elvis Cristian Hernandez-Ayala, 37, pleaded guilty on June 1, according to U.S. Attorney Alamdar Hamdani.
https://www.borderreport.com/immigration/border-crime/migrant-sex-offender-sentenced-for-entering-u-s-illegally-9-times/ 

▫️Registered sex offender sentenced to more than 21 years in prison for child sexual abuse material-related offenses
GALVESTON, Texas — A registered sex offender was sentenced to more than 21 years in federal prison for multiple child sexual abuse material-related offenses following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Galveston and the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Dan McClure, a 71-year-old resident of Pearland, was sentenced in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas to serve 262 months for the receipt of child pornography and 240 months for the possession of child pornography. The sentences will run concurrently for a total of 262 months in federal prison.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/registered-sex-offender-sentenced-more-21-years-prison-child-sexual-abuse-material 

▫️Warrant: Norwalk man sexually assaulted girl 'more than once'
A Norwalk man was charged with sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl after her family member found him naked under a bed last spring, according to an arrest warrant affidavit from the Norwalk Police Department. Norwalk police said they received a report from the state Department of Children and Families in May regarding the sexual assault, the arrest warrant said. The victim, who was 12 years old at the time, told police the sexual abuse had been a regular occurrence, according to the warrant. The incident occurred in March 2022. Marcos Rodas, who was 25 years old at the time, had been renting a room out of a home where the child, the child's mother and a family member of the child lived. The family member told police she had been looking for shoes in the child's mother's room when she caught Rodas and the child together, according to Rodas' arrest warrant.
https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/norwalk-sexual-assault-minor-marcos-rodas-18329300.php 

▫️Convicted sex offender accused of hiding criminal past with Tampa’s elite pleads guilty
TAMPA, Fla. - Prosecutor say John Ring kept his criminal past a secret for years, but his luck finally ran out this spring. In a Tampa courtroom Thursday, Ring pleaded guilty to one felony charge of failing to properly register as a sex offender. His attorney Anthony Rickman explained he failed to include his new contact information on his social media accounts.
» https://www.fox13news.com/video/1269194      (VIDEO)
» https://www.fox13news.com/news/convicted-sex-offender-accused-of-hiding-criminal-past-with-tampas-elite-pleads-guilty 

▫️Virginia real estate agent sentenced 126 years for child sexual abuse material offenses after HSI Harrisonburg investigation
The investigation began with a call to the HSI Tip Line
HARRISONBURG, Va. — An investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Harrisonburg and the Harrisonburg Police Department resulted in a Virginia real estate agent receiving a sentence of 126 years in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 120 years for possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material. Rodney Williams, 53, of Harrisonburg, received the sentence Aug. 14 at the Rockingham County Circuit Court in Harrisonburg.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/virginia-real-estate-agent-sentenced-126-years-child-sexual-abuse-material-offenses 

▫️Former residents of a New Hampshire youth center demand federal investigation into abuse claims
CONCORD, N.H. - Frustrated former residents of New Hampshire´s only youth detention center are pushing for a federal investigation into allegations of decades of abuse. The Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester, previously called the Youth Development Center, has been under criminal investigation by the state since 2019. Ten former workers and an 11th who worked at a pretrial facility in Concord were arrested in 2021. Close to 1,000 men and woman have sued the state alleging physical, sexual or emotional abuse. But the slow pace of the criminal and civil proceedings has some calling for the federal Department of Justice to step in.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12444151/Former-residents-New-Hampshire-youth-center-demand-federal-investigation-abuse-claims.html 

 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News? 

▫️Woman and Children Rescued by New Iberia and Lafayette SWAT Teams
IBERIA PARISH, La. - A Lafourche Parish man now sits in the Iberia Parish Jail after authorities say he held a female and their two young children hostage, forcing New Iberia Police and Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office and Lafayette Police SWAT teams into action. 
https://kpel965.com/woman-and-children-rescued-as-new-iberia-police-lafayette-police-and-iberia-parish-swat-teams-take-down-lafourche-parish-man/ 

▫️West Plains kidnapping victim rescued with the help of witnesses
WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Thursday, August 24, West Plains police officers responded to a gas station where a victim was reportedly being held against her will in her vehicle. When officers arrived, they found that the victim had been separated from the suspect with the help of several witnesses while awaiting the arrival of police. Investigators found that the suspect, 42-year-old Kevin Parsley of Springfield, threatened the victim with a sharp object if she didn’t agree to drive him from Thayer to Springfield. Officers arrested Parsley and he was charged with kidnapping and armed criminal action. He is being held at the Howell County Jail awaiting his first court date on Monday, August 28.
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/news/local-news/west-plains-kidnapping-victim-rescued-with-the-help-of-witnesses/  

▫️'Operation Centennial Trail' helps apprehend 26 offenders with active warrants in Eastern Washington
SPOKANE, Wash. — The U.S Marshals Service completed a two-week warrant sweep called, "Operation Centennial Trail" which led to 26 arrests of individuals with active warrants in Eastern Washington. Over the two-week period, law enforcement from multiple departments focused on arresting violent fugitives and repeat offenders. The 26 offenders that were arrested had warrants for crimes of assault, burglary, child molestation, dangerous drugs, illegal entry, failure to register, felon in possession, robber, sex offenses, possession of child pornography, weapon possession and vehicular homicide.
https://www.khq.com/news/operation-centennial-trail-helps-apprehend-26-offenders-with-active-warrants-in-eastern-washington/article_11910ae4-4390-11ee-afc7-d7b156db8b0c.html 

▫️Operational Angel: 2 child predators heading to prison after arrests in Owensboro
OWENSBORO, Ky. - Two local child predators are heading to federal prison and are expected to be locked up for years, according to the Owensboro Police Department. Cody Sean McCormick, a former Evansville high school teacher, was sentenced to 10 years followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Police say he drove from Evansville to Owensboro to engage in sexual conduct with a 14-year-old girl, who was actually an undercover agent. Bradley Linderman, 36, was also sentenced to 6 years and 8 months in prison, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release. Linderman chatted with an undercover agent online he believed to be a 15-year-old girl and traveled from Indiana to Owensboro to meet the agent, with the intent of engaging in sexual conduct, according to a press release.
https://www.14news.com/2023/08/25/police-2-child-predators-heading-prison-after-arrests-owensboro/ 

▫️Kidnapping suspects arrested after child and woman held for ransom in Fresno
FRESNO, Calif. - A family is reunited after being held against their will by the same people they paid to help them cross the border and come to Fresno. Their desperate father turned to Fresno police to bring his family to safety. Chief Balderrama says they were able to arrest the suspects and rescue the family without the use of force.
https://abc30.com/family-kidnapped-suspect-arrested-held-hostage-mexico-to-fresno/13701765/ 

▫️Mother's safety concerns at school bus stop lead to sex offender's arrest
A Lee County mother’s concerns about her child’s safety at a school bus stop located outside a registered sex offender’s home have led to the offender’s arrest. On Thursday, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ezequiel Pagan. Initially, the mother took her worries to the Lee County School district. However, she wasn’t satisfied with their response, so she turned to WINK News for help. One day after our story aired, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office arrested the offender, Ezequiel Pagan.
https://winknews.com/2023/08/25/mothers-safety-concerns-at-school-bus-stop-lead-to-sex-offenders-arrest/    (VIDEO) 

▫️City of Houston plan to reduce human trafficking along Bissonnet effective, officials say
During a press conference on Friday, Mayor Sylvester Turner said the three-month effort has led to the rescue of three children, along with 105 felony arrests, 41 misdemeanor arrests, 141 warrant arrests and over 1,000 traffic stops that resulted in over 1,200 citations. “The trafficking activity we have long seen for over a decade,” Turner said, “has been significantly diminished and in some cases eliminated.”
https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/houston/2023/08/25/460603/city-of-houston-plan-to-reduce-human-trafficking-along-bissonnet-effective-officials-say/
» https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/crime/article/bissonnet-track-arrests-18331039.php 

▫️Hyannis Man arrested for Human Trafficking and Sexual Assault
Yarmouth Police: On Friday, August 25, 2023, members of the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Service located and arrested 28-year-old Agnaldo Moreida Da Cruz of Hyannis, MA. Moreida Da Cruz had an active warrant for his arrest for Trafficking a Person for Forced Service and Aggravated Rape.
http://capecoddaily.com/news/334216/ 

▫️Rancho Dominguez man arrested on human trafficking charges of a 17-year-old girl
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — A 28-year-old Rancho Dominguez, Calif. man was arrested after he allegedly trafficked a 17-year-old girl and sexually exploited her in California, said the Bakersfield Police Department. Bakersfield Police detectives investigated Kahea Jamal Malone Everett beginning in May 2023 regarding a human trafficking investigation involving a 17-year-old girl. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant. Everett was arrested on August 22 in Orange County by law enforcement officers on charges of human trafficking of a juvenile, pimping and pandering.
https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/rancho-dominguez-man-arrested-on-human-trafficking-charges-of-a-17-year-old-girl-bpd-crime-bakersfield-kern-california  

▫️Pemberton School District Employee Charged with Attempting to Meet Student for Sex
Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw and Acting Pemberton Township Police Chief Jason Luis announced that a Pemberton Township School District employee was arrested today and charged with trying to arrange a sexual encounter with an underage female student. Christopher J. Perry, 34, of Piute Trail in Browns Mills, was charged with Attempted Sexual Assault (Second Degree), Enticing a Minor (Second Degree), Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Third Degree) and Attempted Criminal Sexual Contact (Fourth Degree). Perry will be lodged in the Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly pending a first appearance in Superior Court.
https://burlpros.org/pemberton-school-district-employee-charged-with-attempting-to-meet-student-for-sex/  

▫️Registered sex offender accused of grabbing child in downtown San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo police officers arrested a convicted child molester who allegedly followed a 14-year-old girl into a downtown SLO business last week and grabbed her buttocks. At about 11 a.m. on Aug. 19, Jonathan Davis, 48, followed the teen into a store in the 800 block of Higuera Street. Davis grabbed her buttocks and attempted to pick her up, the girl told police.
» https://youtu.be/E6U4K4_maA8     (VIDEO)
» https://calcoastnews.com/2023/08/sex-offender-arrested-for-grabbing-girls-butt-in-slo/
» https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/registered-sex-offender-accused-of-grabbing-child-in-downtown-san-luis-obispo     (VIDEO)  

▫️Second suspect in Kansas human trafficking investigation charged
WICHITA, Kan. — The second suspect arrested in an ongoing human trafficking investigation in Finney County was charged on Friday morning. Jesus Beatriz Palomino, also known as Betty Palomino, was charged by a judge with: 30 counts of human trafficking; Five counts of aggravated human trafficking; Two counts of interference with law enforcement; One count of aggravated intimidation of a witness; One count of unlawful to receive proceeds from racketeering.
The other suspect in the case, Jose Carlos Castillo-Alegria, was charged on Wednesday.
https://www.ksn.com/news/state-regional/second-suspect-in-kansas-human-trafficking-investigation-charged/ 

▫️Phoenix man in custody for kidnapping, sexually assaulting missing Georgia teen
A Phoenix man is facing numerous felonies after allegedly picking up a teen girl in Georgia, bringing her to Arizona to reside in his house and sexually assaulting her. On Saturday, Phoenix police officers arrested 27-year-old Blane Patterson at his home near Seventh Street and McDowell Road where the 14-year-old girl, who was reported missing in Georgia last month, was found safe.
https://news.yahoo.com/phoenix-man-custody-kidnapping-sexually-203408587.html 

▫️Florida Man Arrested in Vegas For Sex Trafficking, Porterville Teenage Girl Returned to Parents
PORTERVILLE, CA  – A missing teenage girl from Porterville is found in Las Vegas with a man from Florida, who’s now facing serious charges. Detectives said 20-year-old Amari Keishawn Brown was arrested, and the teenage girl was returned to her parents.
https://www.kmjnow.com/2023/08/25/florida-man-arrested-in-vegas-for-sex-trafficking-porterville-teenage-girl-returned-to-parents/  

▫️Child sex abuse chat group administrator from BA gets life
A Broken Arrow man who admitted to helping run a social media group whose criteria for entry was to have a child available to sexually abuse and photograph has been sentenced to life in federal prison. Cameron Kelly McAbee, 33, whose arrest uncovered what prosecutors said was a “cabal of alleged child predators,” was sentenced Friday in Tulsa federal court to also serve two 20-year prison terms and one 30-year prison term at the same time he serves the life sentence. Prosecutors say McAbee’s arrest has led to the apprehension of other people in Australia, Canada and Norway, as well as the U.S., who were connected to the chat forum that he administered. In addition to McAbee, a group of 47 other predators were identified and have or will face justice in their respective jurisdictions for the trauma they have caused to children.
https://tulsaworld.com/news/local/crime-courts/broken-arrow-man-gets-life-sentence-in-child-sex-abuse-chat-group-case/article_b6ffb4e4-4368-11ee-91a9-0f689e8ac972.html pping

▫️Honduran national convicted of taking minor across state lines for sex
HOUSTON — A 33-year-old unlawfully present Honduran national was convicted Aug. 24 of taking a minor on a cross country trip against her will for sex. HSI Houston assisted the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service in the investigation.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/honduran-national-convicted-taking-minor-across-state-lines-sex 

Wilmer Rivera-Hernandez pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas to interstate travel with intent to engage in a sex act with a minor.
▫️New Castle pastor sentenced to prison in sex sting case
NEW CASTLE, Pa. - A man who said he was a pastor at a New Castle church is heading to prison after he was arrested in connection with a sex sting. Thirty-six-year-old Jarod Mills was sentenced to six months behind bars. He was convicted of soliciting a minor for sex. Mills was one of dozens of people arrested during the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force's "Operation Autumn Hope" in 2020.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/new-castle-pastor-sentenced-sex-sting-case/
» https://www.ncnewsonline.com/news/local_news/city-man-sentenced-in-child-trafficking-case/article_d8a88b1c-4380-11ee-8b97-83852fa29919.html 

▫️165 abducted children returned to the United States In 2022
When parents report their children have been abducted or retained outside of the United States (“outgoing abduction cases”), the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Office of Children’s Issues (CI) informs them of potential options and provides resources to help them seek the return of, or access to, their children. In 2022, 118 cases were resolved with the return of 165 abducted children to the United States, and an additional 117 cases were resolved in other ways. During 2022, CI handled a total of 657 active abduction
cases involving 863 children and 79 access cases involving 110 children. Of those 657 cases, 216 were opened in 2022. In addition, CI responded to 180 total initial inquiries in which parents sought information and resources regarding abductions but did not proceed with providing complete documentation.
https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/NEWIPCAAssets/2023 ICAPRA Annual Report-fv.pdf (pdf)
» https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction/for-providers/legal-reports-and-data/reported-cases.html
» https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/International-Parental-Child-Abduction.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Accused sex trafficker eludes authorities after a mistake set him free
It was a proud moment for the Bakersfield Police Department to announce it participated in a statewide operation netting nearly 400 sex trafficking suspects and locally arresting 10 people on suspicion of such crimes. But pride has turned to alarm because a man apprehended by the BPD and the Kern County Human Trafficking Task Force during the operation was released from jail after an error by Kern County Superior Court. Christopher Walker, who was accused of beating a victim to coerce her into prostitution, could be trafficking once again, a search warrant filed by the BPD in court said. The victim helped to arrest Walker, according to the search warrant, and was a “viable part of the investigation. Currently there is a fear Christopher Walker has located (the victim) and has begun to force her to continue to be a sex worker again,” a police officer wrote in the court document.
https://www.bakersfield.com/news/accused-sex-trafficker-eludes-authorities-after-a-mistake-set-him-free/article_23de7a0a-43fa-11ee-9b8b-ebd5e23a23e5.html 

▫️Ware Police looking for man wanted on kidnapping, assault charges
WARE, MA  - The Ware Police Department is asking for your help in locating a wanted man. Rockeem Handfield, 20, is wanted on several charges including kidnapping, open and gross lewdness, and assault and battery on an elderly disabled person and police officers, among other charges. If you have any information on his whereabouts, contact Ware Police at (413) 967-3571.
https://www.westernmassnews.com/2023/08/25/ware-police-looking-man-wanted-kidnapping-assault-charges/       (VIDEO)  

▫️27-year-old Utah gamer arrested on charges of child enticement, rape
LOGAN, Utah  — A 27-year-old in the Utah gaming community is accused of trying to meet up with a 13-year-old girl online for sex. Victor Manuel Davila faces two felony charges. 
https://foxbaltimore.com/news/nation-world/27-year-old-utah-gamer-arrested-on-charges-of-child-enticement-rape-victor-manuel-davila-gaming-tournament-organizer-previous-business-logan-police-13-year-old 

▫️Gainesville man arrested for sexual activity with two minors
GAINESVILLE, Fla.  - A Gainesville man was arrested on multiple charges of sexual activity with minors on Friday afternoon. Eric West, 35, was arrested Friday on multiple charges two counts of sexual assault on a minor, two counts of obscene communication online with intent to meet with minors for sexual activity, two counts of kidnapping with intent to engage in human trafficking, and one count of marijuana possession with intent to sell.
» https://www.wcjb.com/2023/08/26/asco-gainesville-man-arrested-sexual-activity-with-two-minors/
» https://alachuachronicle.com/archer-man-arrested-for-giving-two-16-year-olds-marijuana-in-exchange-for-sex/ 

▫️Fil Am owner of illegal nursing home seeks elder abuse retrial
The owner of several care homes, Ombao ran Secure Hands Board and Care in Riverside California without a license until it was shut down during a 2016 joint investigation by the California Justice Department’s Medical Fraud and Elder Abuse Division and the Riverside Police. Prosecutors charged Ombao, the business’s owner, along with two employees for the alleged abuse of six disabled victims range in age from 32 to 66, as reported on in the Inquirer. The three defendants- Ombao, 70, his assistant Ronnel Tiburico, 58 and registered nurse Nimfa Molina, 64- were all convicted on charges of elder abuse. They are yet to be sentenced.
https://asamnews.com/2023/08/26/fil-am-owner-of-illegal-nursing-home-seeks-elder-abuse-retrial/ 

▫️Poland man sentenced in human trafficking case
A Poland former casino employee has been sentenced to 6 months in prison after his arrest as part of an operation targeting human traffickers last year. 44 Year old Justin Teague plead guilty in June to possessing criminal tools and engaging in prostitution after initially being charged with importuning, attempted sexual conduct with a minor, and possessing criminal tools. Teague's arrest was just one of 56 people arrested last year in a roundup called "Operation Time's Up" by the Ohio Attorney General.
https://www.wfmj.com/story/49520028/poland-man-sentenced-in-human-trafficking-case 

▫️Child predator sentenced to 40 years for soliciting sexually explicit images, videos of minors | ICE
HOUSTON — A child predator was sentenced Aug. 24 to 40 years in federal prison for two counts of producing child pornography and one count each of receiving and possessing child pornography following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Galveston, the Pearland Police Department and the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Andrew Joel Galvan, a 27-year-old resident of Houston, was sentenced in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas to 360 months for each count of producing child pornography to run concurrently, and to 120 months total for receiving and possessing child pornography. The sexual exploitation counts will run consecutively to his sentence for receiving and producing child pornography for a total prison sentence of 40 years. Authorities ultimately discovered 10 victims, all under the age of 12, from whom Galvan solicited child sexual abuse material.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/child-predator-sentenced-40-years-soliciting-sexually-explicit-images-videos-minors 

▫️'Tired of being silent': Human trafficking survivor shares story
https://news.yahoo.com/tired-being-silent-human-trafficking-223603145.html     (VIDEO) 

▫️Human trafficking march took place in Downtown Spokane
https://www.khq.com/news/human-trafficking-march-took-place-in-downtown-spokane/video_90bb4df6-44fe-11ee-85b4-df20e56b8345.html      (VIDEO) 

▫️Folks march against human trafficking in Downtown Mobile
MOBILE, Ala.  - On Saturday afternoon, people marched in the heart of Downtown Mobile to take a stand against human trafficking. The event was a collaboration between the End It Now movement, local law enforcement agencies, and local businesses. Kids and adults rallied at Cathedral Square. “We get together with the community, businesses, individuals and the leadership and we advocate for the end of human trafficking...the end of violence and abuse,” said Robert Soto, area coordinator for End It Now.
https://www.fox10tv.com/2023/08/27/millions-people-are-trafficked-our-area-folks-march-against-human-trafficking-downtown-mobile/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Colorado Springs organization looks to continue the fight against human trafficking
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.  - The Lotus Foundation was established with the mission of providing services and case management to the survivors of both sex and labor trafficking. ”There are a lot of survivors in the area, not just in Colorado Springs, but in all of Colorado,” executive director of the Lotus Foundation Heather Starr said. “We just want to be here for them.” The Lotus Foundation provides confidential advocacy options for survivors of human trafficking in the Pikes Peak area. They operate on a case-by-case basis to determine the services and case management based on the needs of their client and find ways to provide however they can.
https://www.kktv.com/2023/08/27/colorado-springs-organization-looks-continue-fight-against-human-trafficking/ 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Police join with three Hagerstown health agencies to crack down on sex trafficking
Sex trafficking charges lodged against four in organized sting. Four people, including two Hagerstown residents, have been charged after several local agencies joined last week to target child sex predators and prostitution operations. The charges came after the Washington County Sheriff's Office joined with the Washington County Health Department, the Washington County Department of Social Services Child Advocacy Center and the Meritus Forensic Nursing Program to investigate sex trafficking. In a local sex trafficking case earlier this year, a West Virginia woman has pleaded guilty case that involved creation of sexually-explicit videos and photographs of teenage girls for cash and lining them up for sex with men at Hagerstown area hotels, according to federal authorities.
» https://www.wfmd.com/2023/08/29/four-arrested-in-washington-county-during-operation-to-combat-human-trafficking 

▫️ERO Salt Lake City arrests 7 sexual predators in 2-week period
SALT LAKE CITY — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Salt Lake City officers apprehended seven foreign nationals convicted of crimes with a sexual basis requiring them to register as sex offenders during a two-week local enforcement effort. The effort includes noncitizens with final orders of removal.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-salt-lake-city-arrests-7-sexual-predators-2-week-period 

▫️Family ‘caught off guard’ after Ga. man accused of selling ad of ‘17-year-old virgin’ on dark web
JASPER COUNTY, Ga. — A Middle Georgia man has been charged with trying to sell a teen girl’s address on the dark web. According to documents obtained by the Macon Telegraph, a grand jury handed up an indictment against Kelly Garret Ivey, 41, last week saying he posted an ad on the dark web with pictures of naked women and offered to sell the information and location of “17-year-old virgin” from Jasper County. The ad also showed pictures of the girl, the indictment said.
https://www.wsbtv.com/news/georgia/family-caught-off-guard-after-ga-man-accused-selling-ad-17-year-old-virgin-dark-web/H47II6VQ5ZHLNC4CNXJCBJZ47A/ 

▫️Man arrested on human trafficking charges, task force rescues victim
The Coastal Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force — consisting of the FBI, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, Jacksonville Police Department, Wilmington Police Department, and Naval Criminal Investigative Services — participated in an operation to rescue victims of trafficking. The task force located a female in Wilmington who was a victim under the control of Christopher Neal. Neal is suspected of exploiting other unidentified victims and was arrested Monday for human trafficking. Anyone with additional information should contact NHCSO at 910-798-4162.
» https://portcitydaily.com/local-news/2023/08/28/task-force-arrests-man-for-human-trafficking-charges/
» https://www.wwaytv3.com/man-arrested-on-human-trafficking-charges-after-victim-found-in-wilmington/ 

▫️San Ysidro church choir leader arrested for sexual assault of minor
SAN DIEGO - A 27-year-old man was in custody Monday on suspicion of sexual assault of a minor that took place in 2021, police said. Rafael Valentin Magana was arrested Thursday in National City by the San Diego Police Department on a felony warrant charging him with oral copulation with a person under 16 years old and for lewd and lascivious acts with a 15-year-old child. Anyone with information about the assault or was a victim of a similar assault, was asked to call the SDPD Sex Crimes Unit at 619-531-2210 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
» https://www.10news.com/news/local-news/san-diego-police-arrest-man-suspected-of-sexually-assaulting-minor-in-2021     (VIDEO) 
» https://www.nbcsandiego.com/videos/man-suspected-of-sexual-assault-of-a-minor-in-paradise-hills-in-2021-arrested/3294717/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Missing 14-year-old NC girl found, man arrested on kidnapping, sex crime charges in Elizabeth City
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — A man is behind bars in North Carolina, charged with kidnapping and sex crimes. Police arrested 25-year-old Jose Callaham at a motel in Elizabeth City, after learning Saturday that he traveled to the area with a 14-year-old girl who had been reported missing. Investigators from several agencies helped make the arrest. The girl is now back with her family in Moore County, North Carolina. Callaham is in the Albemarle District Jail on charges of first-degree kidnapping, two counts of statutory rape, and four counts of sexual offense of a child. He is currently being held on a $1.75 million secured bond.
https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/crime/man-charged-kidnapping-sex-crimes-elizabeth-city/291-052435f8-5fe0-4555-8184-a4294a4dd81c     (VIDEO) 

▫️Kansas City security guard charged for sexual assault
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Kansas City security guard accused of sexually assaulting women this summer is facing charges. Jackson County prosecutors charged Brandon Wells with first-degree rape or attempted rape and first-degree sodomy or attempted sodomy. Wells also faces two counts of kidnapping and a misdemeanor count of fourth-degree assault.
https://fox4kc.com/news/kansas-city-security-charged-for-sexually-assaulting-two-women/ 

▫️11 Solicit Sex Acts In Westmont: Cops
WESTMONT, IL – Nearly a dozen men were arrested last week on charges of soliciting sex acts, Westmont police said.
https://patch.com/illinois/hinsdale/11-solicit-sex-acts-westmont-cops 

▫️Grand Jury indicts 75-year-old Upper East Side man in kidnapping, sex abuse of 5-year-old Queens girl
NEW YORK CITY - A grand jury has handed up an indictment against the 75-year-old man arrested for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 5-year-old girl. Franz Vila, who was seen with the child on surveillance video, had been charged with kidnapping, criminal sex act, predatory sex assault against a child and endangering the welfare of a child.
https://abc7ny.com/franz-vila-child-sex-abuse-kidnapping-court/13714599/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Dothan man facing 85 counts of child sex abuse charges
DOTHAN, Ala  — A Dothan man accused of almost 60 counts of sexual abuse is now facing additional charges. On Monday, August 28, 37-year-old Timothy David Lloyd was arrested and charged with 29 counts of Sexual Abuse of a Child Less Than 12.
https://www.wrbl.com/news/alabama-news/alabama-crime/dothan-man-facing-85-counts-of-child-sex-abuse-charges/ 

▫️Husband of Annapolis babysitter arrested, accused of sexually assaulting children in house, police say
A Glen Burnie man has been charged with a slew of sexual offenses after police accused him of assaulting two young girls his wife was babysitting in Annapolis. Roberto Medina, 57, was arrested Friday morning and faces nine charges in two separate cases, according to court records, including first- and second-degree rape and third- and fourth-degree sex offenses.
https://www.capitalgazette.com/news/ac-cn-roberto-medina-sexual-assault-annapolis-20230828-l7apv7x7x5dxjn2bbkavl64cka-story.html 

▫️Foster children’s sexual abuse histories not always disclosed to caregivers, lawyers say
Preventing foster children from suffering a repeat incident of sexual abuse while in state care is big concern of U.S. District Judge Janis Graham Jack.
https://www.dallasnews.com/news/2023/08/28/foster-childrens-sexual-abuse-histories-not-always-disclosed-to-caregivers-lawyers-say/ 

▫️Virginia: Helping human trafficking survivors 'Recover Hope'
A local non-profit wants to bring a new residential recovery program to Central Virginia.
https://www.nbc12.com/video/2023/08/28/helping-human-trafficking-survivors-recover-hope/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Vt. school bus driver pleads guilty to child sexual abuse
BURLINGTON, Vt. – A former South Burlington school bus driver was sentenced on Monday after pleading guilty to sexually abusing young boys. Jerry Normandin, 63, of Milton, pleaded guilty to two counts of lewd and lascivious conduct with a child and was sentenced to five to 15 years in prison, of which he must serve at least three.
» https://www.nbc29.com/video/2023/08/28/former-vt-school-bus-driver-pleads-guilty-child-sexual-abuse/      (VIDEO) 
» https://ussanews.com/2023/08/28/former-vt-school-bus-driver-pleads-guilty-to-child-sexual-abuse/ 

▫️Parents outraged Tahoma School District failed to stop accused predator
Parents are blasting the Tahoma School District’s response to a recent investigation by InvestigateWest that uncovered the district’s negligence in employing Bryan Neyers, a paraeducator who is charged with sexually abusing several students. “The community is not happy. I’m not happy,” said Hilary Willis, who runs a Facebook group for Tahoma families. “They need to take these accusations and these reports from families and teachers and paraeducators seriously. Do not wait until police get involved. That has been the pattern over and over.” 
https://crosscut.com/news/2023/08/parents-outraged-tahoma-school-district-failed-stop-accused-predator 

▫️Man serving 25-year sentence for child molesting sentenced to 9 years in second sex abuse case
A Fort Wayne man serving a 25-year sentence for sexually abusing a 7-year-old girl was sentenced Monday to nine years for molesting a second child. Anthony South, 39, took a plea deal last month that allowed him to plead guilty to a lesser child molesting charge in exchange for the dismissal of five similar charges. South’s defense attorney Jerad Marks said during the hearing that South is unlikely to reoffend, but Allen County Deputy Prosecutor Tina Gull disagreed.
https://www.journalgazette.net/local/man-serving-25-year-sentence-for-child-molesting-sentenced-to-9-years-in-second-sex/article_e7725458-45cd-11ee-b3ff-7b6d17cd6399.html 

▫️Lawsuit: Transgender inmate killed after getting sex offender cellmate
The parents of a woman who was beaten to death at a county jail last year are suing the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, alleging failures by several of its leaders and deputies allowed her to be killed by her cellmate. Chief among the failures, the lawsuit says: Deputies gave Kaushal Niroula, who was transgender, a sex offender cellmate with a violent past.
https://www.dispatch.com/story/news/crime_courts/2023/08/28/lawsuit-transgender-inmate-killed-after-getting-sex-offender-cellmate/70700836007/ 

▫️Backpage founder faces 2nd trial over what prosecutors say was a scheme to sell sex through ad sales
PHOENIX - A founder of the lucrative classified site Backpage.com will face his second trial on charges of facilitating prostitution and laundering money in what authorities say was a scheme to knowingly sell ads for sex on the site. Jury selection for Michael Lacey and four former Backpage employees is scheduled to begin Tuesday in federal court. Their first trial ended in a mistrial in September 2021 when a judge concluded prosecutors had too many references to child sex trafficking in a case where no one faced such a charge. Lacey had founded the Phoenix New Times weekly newspaper with James Larkin, who was charged in the case and died by suicide in July.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12455579/Backpage-founder-faces-2nd-trial-prosecutors-say-scheme-sell-ads-sex.html 

▫️PA Lawmaker’s Proposal Would Clear Civilians To Pursue Would-Be Child Predators
A Pennsylvania lawmaker said he wants to make it legal for anyone to go undercover posing as a minor online to help law enforcement arrest sexual predators. Citing the long since canceled hidden camera reality TV show “To Catch a Predator” as evidence that online child predation is a significant problem, state Rep. Jim Gregory, R-Blair, said law enforcement officials are often unable to devote the time or resources necessary to catch “the multitude of predators who prowl the internet for vulnerable children.” “By allowing any individual to pose as a minor for the purpose of enforcing the unlawful contact with a minor statute, these predators may be less likely to target and prey on children,” Gregory said in a memo seeking co-sponsors for the proposed bill.
https://levittownnow.com/2023/08/28/pa-lawmakers-proposal-would-clear-civilians-to-pursue-would-be-child-predators/ 

▫️Anti-Human Trafficking Demonstration held in Downtown Wilmington
On Aug. 27, a group of demonstrators participated in a visual performance to address human trafficking in the port city. The demonstration took place on the steps of the courthouse, and its purpose was to bring awareness to victims of child trafficking. As of 2022 reported data, North Carolina ranked ninth nationally for human trafficking. The demonstration was organized by Vanessa Lussier, an artist, photographer, model and musician.
https://theseahawk.org/35117/news/anti-human-trafficking-demonstration-held-in-downtown-wilmington/ 

▫️Not On Our Watch Texas event hosted by Texas Women in Business Lubbock on September 6 at the Cactus Theater
LUBBOCK, Texas—Not On Our Watch Texas (NOWTX) is rallying all women to raise awareness of, and protect children and youth from, online abuse and exploitation and sextortion.  Texas Women in Business is hosting the first Not On Our Watch Texas event in Lubbock. This will be a free event including lunch on Wednesday, September 6 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at The Cactus Theater. There is also a live stream on Thursday, September 7 from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/trends-and-friends/not-on-our-watch-texas-event-hosted-by-texas-women-in-business-lubbock-on-september-6-at-the-cactus-theater/ 

▫️Free Training Session: Learn to Identify and Report Human Trafficking
The Children's Advocacy Center - Hope House is opening its doors for a free training session on Tuesday, August 29, from 6pm to 7pm. The training, titled "Human Trafficking 101", is being held at the Hope House located at 223 West 28th Avenue, Covington, LA 70433. Sponsored by the Louisiana Bar Foundation, the event is dedicated to raising awareness about the risk factors and warning signs of human trafficking. This informative session is designed for parents and anyone who works with children or youth. Attendees will be equipped with the knowledge to identify children in need and understand how to report suspected cases of human trafficking.
https://original.newsbreak.com/@louisiana-events-1742790/3138679387906-free-training-session-learn-to-identify-and-report-human-trafficking 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️8-year-old boy fights off attempted kidnapper
An 8-year-old Illinois boy fought back against a stranger and escaped an attempted kidnapping on Chicago’s north side, according to city officials and police. The boy wandered ahead while walking with a parent at about 2 p.m. Aug. 28, and a man in a dirty, dark blue Toyota Corolla pulled up beside him near an intersection, according to a joint statement from two Chicago aldermen. The man reached out, grabbed the boy and tried pulling him into the car through the window, according to officials. The boy hit him, broke free and ran, and the man drove away, the release said. Anyone with information about the 
» https://www.tri-cityherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article278735944.html 
»

»

▫️Amarillo police arrest 17 in sex offender compliance operation
https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/amarillo-texas-police-department-arrest-17-in-sex-offender-compliance-operation-fugitive-from-idaho-nabbed-special-victims-unit-proactive-criminal-enforcement-unit-us-marshals-office 

▫️Tulsa police's sex demand reduction operation leads to five felony arrests
TULSA, Okla. — On Tuesday, Aug. 29, the Tulsa Police Department Human Trafficking and Vice Unit conducted a commercial sex demand reduction operation in support of H.B. 2054, which makes the purchase of sex in the State of Oklahoma a felony. The operation resulted in five felony arrests, including individuals seeking to recruit undercover officers into prostitution.
https://ktul.com/news/local/tulsa-polices-sex-demand-reduction-operation-leads-to-five-felony-arrests 

▫️Sheriff’s Office: Deputies capture man wanted for human smuggling
EL PASO, Texas — A man with an outstanding warrant for human smuggling was arrested during a traffic stop early Tuesday morning, Aug. 29 in El Paso’s Upper Valley, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office reported. Deputies then arrested Gonzalo Cuevas-Martinez, who had a $60,000 bond out in his name and was wanted for “smuggling of persons.”
https://www.borderreport.com/immigration/border-crime/sheriffs-office-deputies-capture-man-wanted-for-human-smuggling/ 

▫️KSP Arrests Two Individuals in a Marion County Child Sexual Abuse Investigation
LEBANON, Ky.  – Troopers with Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 in Columbia have made two arrests in an ongoing investigation into the sexual abuse of a child in Marion County. The investigation began earlier this year when KSP Troopers received a report of sexual abuse of a child. During the investigation, Troopers discovered that Jeremy Scott Cissell, age 42 of Springfield, had engaged in inappropriate physical contact with a juvenile in Marion County. This occurred approximately 5 years ago, making the victim 9 years old at the time of the incident. It was also discovered that Megan Michelle Reed, age 37 of Lebanon, had aided Mr. Cissell during the course of the incident.
https://kentuckystatepolice.org/p15-8-29-2023/ 

▫️State Police arrest Troy man on multiple Sexual Offenses against children
On June 29, 2023, State Police, with the assistance of the Troy Police Department, arrested Daniel M. Landfear, 34, of Troy, NY, for Disseminating Indecent Materials to a Minor in the first degree. Again, on August 29, 2023, State Police arrested Landfear for Criminal Sex Act in the First Degree, Forcible Touching, and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Further investigation discovered Landfear reportedly had sexual contact with a child under the age of 11 and forcibly touched another child under the age of 17. Both additional incidents are reported to have occurred in Troy, NY. If you have any information about this crime or believe you may also be a victim, please contact SP Brunswick at 518-279-4427 or crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.
https://www.nyspnews.com/state-police-arrest-troy-man-on-multiple-sexual-offenses-against-children.htm 

▫️Louisville man accused of breaking into apartment, sexually abusing 9-year-old girl
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Police said a mother sleeping in her home in Louisville's Russell neighborhood woke up to discover that a man had broken into her house and was sexually abusing her 9-year-old daughter. According to court documents, 62-year-old Elton Pulliam was arrested early Wednesday morning by officers with the Louisville Metro Police Department.
https://www.wdrb.com/news/crime-reports/louisville-man-accused-of-breaking-into-apartment-sexually-abusing-9-year-old-girl/article_2d6d4bce-473c-11ee-89c0-5b4fe0bb9d86.html 

▫️Western Nebraska School Employee faces charges of child abuse and sexual assault
NORTH PLATTE, Neb.  -  According to a social media post from the Imperial Nebraska Police Department, Jeremiah J. Vlasin faces charges of child abuse and sexual assault by a school employee. The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol have been and continue to assist the Imperial Police Department in this case. The Imperial Police Department is advising anyone with additional information to reach out to the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office or Officer Bustillos with the Imperial Police Department. This is an ongoing case, KNOP will provide updates as they become available.
» https://www.knopnews2.com/2023/08/29/western-nebraska-school-employee-faces-charges-child-abuse-sexual-assault/
» https://northplattepost.com/posts/01e1f43c-f950-401f-b5e5-e5e4cf542442 

▫️Former Danbury teacher on trial accused of sexual abusing child daily
DANBURY — Three witnesses took the stand Tuesday during the first day of a trial for former Danbury teacher Kenneth Gardner, including the victim of his alleged years-long abuse. Gardner — who faces four counts of first-degree sexual assault, five counts of illegal sexual contact, two counts of third-degree sexual assault, attempt to commit first-degree sexual assault, conspiracy to commit third-degree sexual assault and first-degree possession of child pornography — resigned in February 2022, five months after police said they launched an investigation into the allegations against him and his wife.
https://www.newstimes.com/news/article/kenneth-gardner-danbury-teacher-trial-day-1-18336222.php 

▫️Police: Mifflin Co. man accused of repeatedly sexually abusing two young girls at private daycare
Mifflin County, PA  — Authorities in Mifflin County say a Reedsville man is behind bars following an investigation into accusations that he repeatedly sexually abused two young girls. Police say Michael Mowery, 61, faces dozens of charges after two girls came forward earlier this year to report that they had each been molested by him at his home, which operated as a private daycare.
https://wjactv.com/news/local/police-mifflin-accused-charges-child-sex-crimes-assault-abuse-victims-daycare-home-sleeping-investigation-school-juvenile-mowery 

▫️Burley man arrested in human trafficking investigation
RUPERT, Idaho  — A month-long human trafficking investigation led to the arrest of a Burley man. 32-year-old Oliver Encinas was arrested after he was attempting to exchange money and drugs for sex with a minor. Detectives uncovered evidence Encinas was conducting this activity online. Encinas arrived in Rupert for a planned meet-up with the minor, when he was arrested instead.
https://www.kmvt.com/2023/08/30/burley-man-arrested-human-trafficking-investigation/ 

▫️US says extremist-linked smuggler helped Uzbeks cross border
A smuggler with ties to a foreign extremist group helped Uzbek migrants enter the US from Mexico, the White House said on Tuesday, raising questions about a potential security threat. The smuggler was based in Turkey and had links to the jihadist Islamic State, also known as ISIS, according to a US official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
» https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/world/2023/08/30/us-says-smuggler-with-extremist-ties-helped-uzbeks-cross-us-mexico-border/
» https://www.newsnationnow.com/us-news/immigration/smuggler-terrorist-people-cross-border/ 

▫️A look at the efforts to end human trafficking at 'Mass. and Cass'
Boston Police want to remove tents and tarps from the area around Melnea Cass and Massachusetts Avenue without the level of restrictions currently in place for them. That's partially because they say the temporary structures give cover to human trafficking. Boston HEAT, or Human Exploitation and Trafficking, has been working at Mass and Cass for years, trying to get women out of exploitation. It's a collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital and the Boston Police Department's Human Trafficking Unit. We hear more about the efforts from HEAT's clinical director, and a peer advocate.
https://www.wbur.org/radioboston/2023/08/29/mass-cass-sex-exploitation-human-trafficking 

▫️All third-party human trafficking tips should be reported to law enforcement
Since its creation in 2007, the National Human Trafficking Hotline has connected concerned citizens, trafficking victims, and local law enforcement in a concerted national effort to end human trafficking and help its victims find the pathway to recovery. But the hotline has recently been rendered ineffective by the very organization chosen to operate it: Polaris. Unless Congress acts to restore the hotline to its stated function and purpose, states will be forced to leave this national effort and begin again in isolated state actions. Traffickers would like nothing more. It recently came to our attention that Polaris, which operates the hotline, is no longer reporting third-party tips of adult trafficking to local law enforcement. Since the fall of 2021, when we first discovered this devastating change of policy, we have attempted to engage Polaris in a discussion about the importance of going back to its well-advertised function as a tip line. States and organizations across the country once considered Polaris an indispensable partner in the fight to end trafficking. But every attempt to reason with them has been inexplicably resisted.
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/restoring-america/fairness-justice/third-party-human-trafficking-tips-should-be-reported-to-law-enforcement 

▫️Evansville man sentenced 21 years for sexually abusing 4-year-old
EVANSVILLE, Ind —  Michael Hines, 39, pleaded guilty to the production and attempted production of child sex abuse material. In 2017, Hines used his smartphone to record videos of himself engaging in sexual acts with the minor. At the time of the offense, the victim was 4 years old, according to court documents.
https://www.wthr.com/article/news/local/evansville-man-sentenced-21-years-recording-himself-sexually-abusing-4-year-old-indiana/531-c0475927-f5a2-42ed-a388-880556c18ce2 

▫️Episcopal priest Richard Losch indicted for felony child sexual abuse
Richard Rorex Losch, an Episcopal priest canonically resident in the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, has been indicted by a grand jury in Grafton County, New Hampshire, of a Class A Felony Aggravated Felonious Sexual Assault involving a minor under the age of 13.  The case is State v. Richard Losch Docket: 215-2023-CR-0609 and has its genesis in conduct dating from the mid-1970s. Glenda Curry, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, has known of the issue for more than two years. Similarly, various church officials have known of the allegations for extended periods.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/08/breaking-episcopal-priest-richard-losch-indicted-for-felony-child-sexual-abuse/
» https://www.anglicanwatch.com/breaking-episcopal-priest-richard-losch-indicted-for-felony-child-sexual-abuse/ 

▫️Megachurch Accused of Covering Up News of Youth Volunteer Charged with Trying to Sell Teen on Dark Web
A Georgia megachurch is facing allegations it failed to warn congregants about a former youth volunteer who’s been charged with trying to traffic a 16-year-old on the dark web. Records obtained by The Roys Report (TRR) show that on June 30, authorities arrested Kelly Garrett Ivey—a former youth volunteer at Rock Springs Church in Milner, Ga.—and charged him with child cruelty and kidnapping. And last Monday, a grand jury indicted Ivey, 41, on first and second-degree charges of cruelty to children, trafficking, and three counts of criminal attempt to commit a felony, including kidnapping. Yet, members of Rock Springs said they just learned of the charges against Ivey last week, when a local newspaper, The Monroe County Reporter, published a story.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/08/megachurch-accused-of-covering-up-news-of-youth-volunteer-charged-with-trying-to-sell-teen-on-dark-web/
» https://julieroys.com/megachurch-cover-up-youth-volunteer-ivey-charged-trying-sell-teen-dark-web/ 

▫️Boy Scouts Sex Abuse Settlement Claims Portal Opens
It is no longer a secret that thousands of boys have suffered sexual abuse during their time spent within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), an organization congressionally chartered in 1916. In 2020, the repercussions of the sexual abuse forced the BSA to seek bankruptcy protection, and filings against the organization topped 80,000 sexual abuse claims. On August 17, Judge Barbara J. Houser posted another announcement to the remaining claimants, letting them know the portal was also now available to them. “Now an estimated 75,000 Claimants or their counsel will receive credentials to access the Claims Processing Portal. This will allow them to complete their Trust Claims Questionnaire and submit supporting documentation,” she wrote.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/08/boy-scouts-sex-abuse-settlement-claims-portal-opens/
» https://www.legalexaminer.com/legal/sexual-abuse/boy-scouts-sex-abuse-settlement-claims-portal-opens/
» https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/aug/30/boy-scout-sexual-abuse-survivor 

   @ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING

▫️Butterflies 15 helps abused women, raises trafficking awareness
TOLEDO, Ohio — Ohio had the sixth-highest number of human trafficking cases identified in 2021, according to the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Butterflies 15 is a Toledo-based drop-in center that helps women who have escaped human trafficking, domestic violence situations and even substance abuse. The founder and executive director, Tina Robinson, says the number of cases is only going up and they want people to know resources are out there.
https://www.wtol.com/article/news/local/butterflies-15-toledo-domestic-abuse-trafficking-support-awareness/512-3b449ff0-2c68-409c-adef-c6639c996aba       (VIDEO) 

▫️Survivors Of Human Trafficking Receive Life-Changing Equine Therapy Through $30,000 Grant From The Human-Animal Alliance
The Human-Animal Alliance awarded grants to Inspiration Ranch and Ranch Hands Rescue, providing free animal-assisted therapy to survivors of human trafficking. These grants from The Human-Animal Alliance will provide a total of 550 hours of top-notch animal-assisted therapy sessions to roughly 50 survivors in both individual and small group format – all completely free of charge. Ranch Hands Rescue rescues abused and neglected animals to give them second chances as therapy animals for clients at the Ranch. Ranch Hands Rescue also works directly with Bob’s House of Hope, the first safe house in the country for male victims of sex trafficking.
https://www.tampafp.com/survivors-of-human-trafficking-receive-life-changing-equine-therapy-through-30000-grant-from-the-human-animal-alliance/ 

▫️Supervisors OK policy to increase human trafficking awareness in schools
As proposed by Supervisors Jim Desmond and Nora Vargas, and District Attorney Summer Stephan, the policy will apply to grades kindergarten through 12. As of now, only 7th and 8th-grade students receive anti-trafficking training.
https://www.kpbs.org/news/local/2023/08/29/supervisors-ok-policy-to-increase-human-trafficking-awareness-in-schools 

▫️Advocates aim to raise awareness about human trafficking in Valley
FRESNO, Calif. - Advocates are hoping to bring more awareness to the growing danger of human trafficking in the Central Valley. A panelist of agencies including Fresno police, Homeland Security, and the Fresno County District Attorney's Office, held a conversation Tuesday to educate people on the tough topic. Officials say human trafficking is the fastest growing crime in the San Joaquin Valley and officials say the prime target is youth
https://abc30.com/human-trafficking-raising-awareness-breaking-the-chains-growing-danger/13717414/ 

 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Operation Sneaky Peach leads to arrest of 26 individuals for sexual exploitation of children
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - Operation Sneaky Peach has led to the arrest of 26 individuals in Georgia for sexual exploitation of children. During Operation Sneaky Peach, law enforcement agencies with the Georgia Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force executed 34 residential search warrants and 3 additional enforcement actions in 28 counties across the State of Georgia. Anyone with information about these cases, or other cases of child exploitation, is asked to contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Unit at (404) 270-8870.
» https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/operation-sneaky-peach-leads-to-arrest-of-31-individuals-for-sexual-exploitation-of-cildren 
»

▫️'Serial sexual predator' from Sacramento arrested in New York according to Sacramento Police
In a news release posted Thursday morning, Sacramento police announced the arrest of 35-year-old Kabeh Cummings in connection to multiple sexual assaults that occurred within the Sacramento area dating back to 2010. Sacramento Police and partner agencies are scheduled to hold a joint news conference about the arrest September 5 at 9 a.m. Police are also asking anyone who might have been a victim or anyone who may know more about Cummings, to call their tip line at 916-808-1773.
» https://www.kcra.com/article/serial-sexual-predator-sacramento-arrested-new-york-police/44961117#         (VIDEO) 
» https://news.yahoo.com/serial-sexual-predator-sacramento-arrested-134610502.html        (VIDEO) 
» https://apps.sacpd.org/Releases/liveview.aspx?reference=20230831-054 

▫️Woman arrested after intruders kill man, take baby from home, police in Mississippi say
JACKSON, Miss. - Jackson police said a 23-year-old woman, along with three men, all wearing masks, kicked down the back door, robbed the residents and killed a man before taking a 10-month-old baby at gunpoint. Police told media sources that the man was shot to death. Investigators said one of the suspects, 23-year-old Jazmyn Johnson, was arrested at a gas station, and the baby was safely recovered at the same location.
» https://www.wbng.com/2023/08/31/woman-arrested-after-intruders-kill-man-take-baby-home-police-mississippi-say/
» https://www.wowt.com/2023/08/31/woman-arrested-after-intruders-kill-man-take-baby-home-police-mississippi-say/ 

▫️Garden City police looking for workers of alleged human traffickers
WICHITA, Kan.  — After two people have been arrested and charged with over 30 counts of human trafficking in Finney County, Garden City police are looking for more possible victims. A Facebook post (https://www.facebook.com/GardenCityPD/posts/pfbid02sCKF4nBY9BCYvPxDYhmxM5tsHky4ZoMxfpobb9Uqjxd4Wmsvt14wgHNNCRD8oduml) from the Garden City Police Department says those who come forward should not be fearful and will not be in trouble. They are asking for help. Finney County Livewell Coalition is currently accepting donations of household items for the victims who are being housed locally.
https://www.ksn.com/news/local/garden-city-police-looking-for-workers-of-alleged-human-traffickers/ 

▫️Miami County man pleads guilty in Butler Twp. child sex sting
A Miami County man pleaded guilty Tuesday after he was arrested in a March child sex sting in Butler Twp., which happened two weeks before he was caught with a 14-year-old girl in a Troy motel room, records show. Cody Aaron Michael Smith, 30, of West Milton will be sentenced Sept. 23 by Montgomery County Common Pleas Judge Gerald Parker following his conviction for one count of importuning, which is soliciting a minor for sex. 
https://www.daytondailynews.com/local/miami-county-man-pleads-guilty-in-butler-twp-child-sex-sting/337YPGQ3RNETFJHWE6MFENDT4E/ 

▫️Moment cops arrest Ashlee Cheatham, 19, for child sex abuse after her distraught boyfriend 'found shocking photos of his three-year-old daughter while scrolling through her phone'
Bodycam footage has emerged of the moment cops in Oklahoma arrested a woman after her boyfriend allegedly discovered evidence she had sexually abused his three-year-old daughter. Ashlee Cheatham, 19, can be seen opening the door to officers from the Stillwater Police Department (SPD) wearing nothing but a plain sweater.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12465427/Moment-cops-arrest-woman-19-sexually-abusing-distraught-boyfriends-three-year-old-daughter-shocking-photos-videos-scrolling-phone.html     (VIDEO) 

▫️Man accused of 'brokering trafficked individuals' arrested
A man accused of being "involved in patient brokering of trafficked individuals" has been arrested. Robert Kayongo was arrested on Wednesday. Aug. 30, the Arizona Attorney General's Office (AGO) announced. "The AGO has also served a search warrant and will be helping to coordinate care for any individuals that had been in the care of the suspect," the agency said. FOX 10's Justin Lum has covered the sober living scheme extensively, highlighting a statewide crackdown on unlicensed and fraudulent sober living homes taking advantage of Native Americans looking to get sober.

▫️Phoenix man arrested on child sex crimes, may have more victims
PHOENIX, Ore. – The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office says a Phoenix man was arrested Wednesday on child cyber-sex crime charges. According to police, Joshua Ray Pool, 40 of Phoenix, was arrested at his apartment on North Main Street Wednesday morning.  An investigation into Pool began after police received a report from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office of a child being exploited through X, formerly known as Twitter. Pool was charged with using a child in display of sexually explicit content and encouraging child sex abuse. Investigators believe Pool may have more victims throughout the United States.
If you have any information on the suspect, you can contact investigators through the Sheriff’s App “Submit a Tip” feature.  You can also call the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) Tip Line at (541) 774-8333 and reference case number 23-1667.
Police say detectives are interviewing possible witnesses and people involved. The investigation is still ongoing.
https://kobi5.com/news/phoenix-man-arrested-on-child-sex-crimes-may-have-more-victims-214200/ 

▫️Suspected Child Molester Arrested By FBI; Additional Victims Sought
LOS ANGELES, CA — An FBI Fugitive Task Force this month arrested a 39-year-old man suspected of sexually abusing children over the course of years, and investigators are urging additional victims in the Los Angeles County area to come forward. Authorities arrested Deandre Fradiue in Las Vegas Aug. 8 on suspicion of four counts of sexual abuse of minors, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Fradiue has resided in the Southern California area, and authorities believe there may be additional victims in the area. Anyone with information about alleged sexual assaults is asked to call the LASD Special Victims Bureau at 562-906-6450.
https://patch.com/california/los-angeles/suspected-child-molester-arrested-fbi-additional-victims-sought 

▫️Wood County man sentenced to 10 life sentences for numerous sex abuse charges against children
MADISON, Wis. — A Hewitt man was sentenced to 10 life sentences in state prison without the possibility of parole on numerous child sexual abuse charges earlier this month in US Western District of Wisconsin court.  On Aug. 18, Brian T. McDowell, 64, took responsibility for his actions in court and plead guilty to numerous child abuse charges and was sentenced to 10 life sentences without the chance of release in Wisconsin State Prison, according to a news release from Wood County Sheriff's Department.
» https://www.nbc15.com/2023/08/31/unthinkable-crimes-hewitt-man-gets-10-life-sentences-child-sex-convictions-sheriffs-office-says/
» https://www.waow.com/news/wood-county-man-sentenced-to-10-life-sentences-for-numerous-sex-abuse-charges-against-children/article_83ca4782-4774-11ee-8f0c-8bf7a3d486a6.html 

▫️Former Archbishop of Washington, Theodore McCarrick, 93, ruled unfit to stand trial on allegations of historic sexual abuse of a boy, 16
A judge has ruled that a former Catholic Archbishop is unfit to stand trial for allegations that he'd sexually assaulted a 16-year-old boy in 1974 because of his dementia. Former archbishop of Washington DC Theodore McCarrick, 93, had been criminally charged with sexually assaulting a teenage boy in 2021 and was awaiting trial. Massachusetts state judge Paul McCallum ruled on Wednesday that based on the testimony of a forensic psychologist that McCarrick was 'cognitively unable' to stand trial.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12464075/Archbishop-ruled-unfit-stand-trial-allegations-sex-abuse.html 

▫️Interactive Digital Map of Indian Boarding Schools - The National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition
A nonprofit group has identified 115 more Indian boarding schools than has been previously reported, offering new insight into the role of religious institutions in the long-standing federal policy to eradicate Native Americans’ culture through their children. For more than a century, generations of American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian children were forced or coerced from their homes and communities and sent to live at schools where they were beaten, starved and made to abandon their Native languages and culture. The U.S. Department of the Interior announced last year that the federal government ran or supported 408 such schools in 37 states, including 21 schools in Alaska and seven in Hawaii, from 1819 to 1969.
» https://boardingschoolhealing.org/interactive-digital-map-of-indian-boarding-schools/
» https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2023/08/30/indian-boarding-schools/ 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Sex trafficking victim rescued in OKC, three people in custody
OKLAHOMA COUNTY, Okla. - Three people are facing charges after an undercover investigation connected them to the sex trafficking of a minor. 28-year-old Aubri Parsons, 38-year-old Jordell Tawan Henderson, and 30-year-old Megan Ann Miller each face multiple counts of Human Trafficking of a Minor and Publication of Child Pornography. The victim is getting help in a special facility, and OBN officials say she is doing very well.
» https://www.fox23.com/news/sex-trafficking-victim-rescued-in-okc-three-people-in-custody/article_4966113a-48d6-11ee-9fe0-773309d5351b.html
»  https://okcfox.com/news/local/undercover-operation-by-oklahoma-bureau-of-narcotics-leads-to-multiple-arrests-in-minor-sex-trafficking-case-crime-obn-humanaubri-parsons-jordell-tawan-henderson-megan-ann-miller-oklahoma-distict-attorney-pornography
»

▫️ERO arrests 366 noncitizens during recent national operation | ICE
Officers focused enforcement efforts on priority fugitive noncitizens and priority noncitizens previously removed from the U.S. who reentered the country illegally; specifically, those identified as having a criminal conviction for certain felonies or convictions for other crimes including but not limited to murder for hire, manslaughter, sex crimes against children.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-arrests-366-noncitizens-during-recent-national-operation 

▫️5 men charged, 7 survivors, after two-day human trafficking operation near Chattanooga, TN, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation says
HAMILTON COUNTY – Five men face charges and seven women accepted services following a two-day operation to address human trafficking in the Chattanooga area. There was a total of 21 encounters with individuals during this operation.
» https://tbinewsroom.com/2023/09/01/two-day-trafficking-operation-in-chattanooga-area-leads-to-arrests/
» https://www.wate.com/news/tennessee/tbi-5-charged-after-two-day-trafficking-operation-near-chattanooga/
» https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/653267107/two-day-trafficking-operation-in-chattanooga-area-leads-to-arrests 

▫️5 Cumberland County massage parlors busted in human trafficking sting
Operation Closed2Trafficking  sought to identify purportedly legitimate massage therapy businesses in Cumberland County that are operating as fronts for labor/sex trafficking in violation of Pennsylvania criminal statutes. One person was arrested yesterday in a human trafficking investigation that linked five Cumberland County massage parlors offering illegal services, the county's District Attorney's office announced.
» https://www.fox43.com/article/news/crime/cumberland-county-massage-parlors-human-trafficking-min-dong/521-e0598aa9-dd72-43a9-8140-8635b41a3d32
» https://cumberland.crimewatchpa.com/da/5591/post/district-attorney-announces-major-human-trafficking-operation 

▫️Two Charged for Human Trafficking Children in Williamsport
WILLIAMSPORT, PA – On Monday, Victor Eugene Booth, a 40-year-old male, was arrested in the Jersey Shore Area by the U.S. Marshal Service. Booth has been charged with Trafficking in Individuals, Prostitution and Related Offenses, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. During an investigation conducted by the Williamsport Police, Booth, along with Jennifer Gibbs and Allen Frazier, were found to be involved in grooming two female juveniles, ages 12 and 16, for sexual exploitation.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2023/08/31/two-charged-for-human-trafficking-children-in-williamsport/ 

▫️Charles County Police Seeking Waldorf Man Wanted for Sexual Child Abuse - $1,000 reward
Charles County Sheriff’s investigators are seeking the whereabouts of Katravien Tyrieus Vercher, 24, of Waldorf, who was recently indicted on multiple counts of sexual child abuse. Warrants are on file charging Vercher with sex abuse of a minor, third-degree sex offense, and other related charges. Anyone with information is asked to call PFC Rickard at 301-609-3282 ext. 0660. Tipsters who want to remain anonymous may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app. A cash reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for the tip that leads to an arrest in the case.
https://smnewsnet.com/archives/524348/charles-county-police-seeking-waldorf-man-wanted-for-sexual-child-abuse/ 

▫️Former coach sentenced on NH charges of human trafficking
DOVER, N.H. — One day after being sentenced on federal charges of producing child sex abuse material, a former basketball coach has pleaded guilty to state charges of human trafficking. Joshua Pincoske will serve a sentence of 3½ to seven years for each of the two charges he faced in Strafford County.
» https://youtu.be/PjppKUXSNYs        (VIDEO)
» https://www.wmur.com/article/joshua-pincoske-sentence-human-trafficking-9123/44976481#

▫️Local substitute teacher, assistant coach sentenced to prison for possessing child porn
BEAVER COUNTY, Pa. — A former substitute teacher and coach for the Blackhawk School District was sentenced to state prison for charges of dissemination of child pornography. According to the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office, Joshua Andrews, 31, negotiated a plea deal and will spend five to 10 years in prison. He will also be required to be registered as a sex offender for 25 years.
https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/local-substitute-teacher-assistant-coach-sentenced-possessing-child-porn/QJ7N6MPET5AKBPTEXJUW5RCB2M/ 

▫️Green Bay Pastor Pleads Guilty to Online Crime Targeting a Venezuelan Child
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on August 31, 2023, Cory J. Herthel (age: 40) of Green Bay, Wisconsin, pled guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a). Herthel will receive a federal prison sentence of at least 15 years when he is sentenced on December 4, 2023. He will also be required to register as a sexual offender under state and federal law.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edwi/pr/green-bay-pastor-pleads-guilty-online-crime-targeting-venezuelan-child 

▫️NJ Data Analyst Admits Trafficking Child Porn
Marcevan Manasse, 28, of Somerville, was nabbed following an undercover operation, authorities said. Detectives accessed five video files and 11 images containing child sexual abuse from an IP address at Manasse’s home, a complaint on file in U.S. District Court in Trenton says. The files included “multiple visual depictions of pre-pubescent children being sexually abused by adults” that he ended up sharing over the course of more than two years, it says.
https://dailyvoice.com/new-jersey/somerset/nj-data-analyst-admits-trafficking-child-porn/ 

▫️YouTube parent advisor Ruby Franke arrested on child abuse suspicion
Ruby Franke, whose now defunct channel "8 Passengers" followed her family, was arrested Wednesday night in the southern Utah city of Ivins. Franke's 12-year-old son climbed out of a window in Hildebrandt's residence in Ivins and ran to a neighbour's house Wednesday morning and asked for food and water, according to an affidavit filed by an officer with the Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department. The neighbour saw duct tape on the boy's ankles and wrists and called law enforcement, the affidavit said. The boy was taken to a hospital, where he was put on a medical hold "due to his deep lacerations from being tied up with rope and from his malnourishment," arrest records state.
https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/parenting-advice-youtuber-ruby-franke-arrested-on-suspicion-of-child-abuse-1.6544192 

▫️Border Patrol Agents Arrest Prior Sex Offender Making Illegally Entry
CALEXICO, Calif. – El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents arrested a Mexican man with a prior sexual offense conviction early Tuesday morning.
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/border-patrol-agents-arrest-prior-sex-offender-making-illegally-entry 

▫️Hewitt man indicted on ten counts of child indecency, sex assault
Hewitt, Tx – A McLennan County Grand Jury has indicted a 38-year-old Hewitt man on a total of ten counts of various kinds of sexual abuse involving children. Bryan Saenz has remained in the McLennan County Jail since his arrest in June with his bond set at a total of $2.25 million.
https://www.fox44news.com/news/local-news/mclennan-county/hewitt-man-indicted-on-ten-counts-of-child-indecency-sex-assault/ 

▫️Revamped Senate Bill 14 makes child sex trafficking a 3-strike law
NBC 7’s Dave Summers looks into SB 14 and what it could do to stop child sex trafficking. Grove’s motivation for the legislation is the rising incidence of sex trafficking, and her bill would increase fines and time behind bars for repeat offenders. “We all know that sex trafficking in the state of California is a hotbed,” she said. “And it’s actually the number two most illicit crime in the United States, only second behind the drug trade.”
» https://www.nbcsandiego.com/videos/revamped-senate-bill-14-makes-child-sex-trafficking-a-3-strike-law/3297346/       (VIDEO) 
»

▫️Green Bay pastor pleads guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor
GREEN BAY, Wis.  - Cory J. Herthel, a 40-year-old pastor from Green Bay, will receive a federal prison sentence of at least 15 years when he is sentenced on December 4, 2023. According to a written statement issued by the U.S. Department of Justice, United States Attorney’s Office Eastern District of Wisconsin, Herthel had been involved in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a minor living in Venezuela.
https://www.wbay.com/2023/08/31/green-bay-pastor-pleads-guilty-attempted-sexual-exploitation-minor/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Ringleader of child porn enterprise gets life
TULSA Okla. – A Broken Arrow man who sexually exploited a young child and was an administrator for a transnational child exploitation chat group was sentenced to life in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Chief Judge John F. Heil III sentenced Cameron Kelly McAbee, 33, to life in federal prison. “McAbee was the ringleader in a child porn enterprise identified through an investigation by the FBI and our task force partners. In addition to McAbee a group of 47 other predators were identified and have or will face justice in their respective jurisdictions for the trauma they have caused to children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
https://www.morningsun.net/stories/ringleader-of-child-porn-enterprise-gets-life,86745 

▫️'No Trafficking Zone' law increases penalty for human trafficking
TEXAS, USA — There are a lot of new laws going into effect and one in particular increases the penalty when it comes to human trafficking. It’s a move advocates say is in the right direction. The bill is called the “No Trafficking Zone” law. This bill upgrades the criminal penalities for human trafficking at certain locations, like foster care facilities, homeless youth shelters and schools.
https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/new-law-increases-penalty-for-human-trafficking-texas-austin-san-antonio-legislative-session-laws/273-e30a568b-d905-462e-8bd0-e9dcb3798199 

▫️First home for young girl rescued from human trafficking opens in southern Alabama

▫️Jehovah Witness elder sentenced to jail for child sexual abuse
SPRINGFIELD, Mass.  - A 62-year-old Springfield man, classified as a Level 3 Sex Offender is facing years in jail after being found guilty on multiple counts of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child. The female victim in this case was 13-years-old at the time, according to the Hampden District Attorney’s Office. Jay Aaron Smith, who serves as elder in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Springfield according to authorities, faced 4 Counts of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child Under 14.
https://www.westernmassnews.com/2023/09/01/jehovah-witness-elder-sentenced-jail-child-sexual-abuse-case/ 

▫️Harvard Medical School report on theft of body parts from morgue now due in October
Harvard Medical School has set a new October deadline for completing an inquiry into how its body donation program allegedly became the center of a nationwide network trafficking in the sale of human remains.
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/09/01/metro/harvard-medical-school-report-on-theft-of-body-parts/?camp=bg:brief:rss:MSN&rss_id=MSN_rss_brief 

▫️FREE SEMINAR – Frio-Nueces Current
FREE SEMINAR on sex trafficking awareness will be held on Thursday, August 31 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the PISD Performing Arts Center in Pleasanton.
https://www.frio-nuecescurrent.com/event/free-seminar/ 

▫️St. Joseph's Parish in Amery is hosting a workshop on human trafficking and sexual exploitation on Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 6:30 p.m.
Presenter Ashley Moore of C.A.S.T. (Citizens Against Sex Trafficking) works with the organization, which serves the Twin Cities metro area and western Wisconsin. The region is one of 13 regions in the United States with disproportionately high rates of child sex trafficking. C.A.S.T. seeks to empower communities to help end sex trafficking by offering awareness and response training. The event on Sept. 13 will offer education on learning the signs of human trafficking and ways to helpfully prevent and respond to this exploitation in the local community. Visit castmn.org for more information.
https://superiorcatholicherald.org/news/local-news/human-trafficking-hits-close-to-home/ 

▫️Centerline Drivers announces partnership with Truckers Against Trafficking
SANTA ANA, Calif.  - Centerline Drivers is proud to announce our official partnership with Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT). Through this partnership, our truck drivers will be trained and certified in how to combat human trafficking directly on our Centerline mobile app. We will also be building programs and initiatives for our customers and internal teams to get involved in helping with this fight.
https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/centerline-drivers-announces-partnership-with-truckers-against-trafficking-1032600091 

▫️Christian women’s group to see raffle tickets for Christmas tree during BBQ Days; funds will go to fight against human trafficking
KAMIAH — Tuesday Time, a Christian women’s group, is creating a one-of-a kind Christmas tree decorated with unique handmade, ornaments, lights and bright green flocking. A booth will be at Kamiah Barbecue Days selling raffle tickets for this tree. The winner will have the decorated three in their home by late November or early December. The theme of the tree is BoHo — bohemian things revisited frrm the 1960s. All proceeds will go to Rescue Her, a nonprofit charity that exists to fight human trafficking with the mission is to prevent, rescue and restore. For questions, call Susan Kofoed at 208-521-0183.
https://www.clearwaterprogress.com/news/christian-women-s-group-to-see-raffle-tickets-for-christmas-tree-during-bbq-days-funds/article_c955d778-468c-11ee-9932-ff56b9c96db2.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News

▫️Man beat, chained up sex trafficking victim before she escaped, Glendale police say
GLENDALE, AZ  — GLENDALE, Ariz. — A Glendale man is facing sex crime and assault charges after police responded to a 911 call about a woman in chains asking for help. Police discovered she was a sex trafficking victim. “This was getting to an extreme level, the chains and the restraints,” said former FBI supervisory special agent Lance Leising.  According to police, Aaron Cortez had chained up a woman in his travel trailer, whipped her with a charging cord and chains, then left her alone locked inside. Court documents showed once she felt he was gone long enough, she escaped, and detectives later learned she was a sex trafficking victim, allegedly being pimped out by Cortez, who went by “King Ace.”  Cortez was arrested after police were surveilling him and is now facing charges including aggravated assault, kidnapping and illegal enterprise.
» https://www.azfamily.com/2023/09/02/man-beat-chained-up-sex-trafficking-victim-before-she-escaped-glendale-police-say/       (VIDEO)
» https://www.12news.com/article/news/crime/glendale-man-arrested-woman-escapes-home-chains/75-b43b3eae-fe3c-4aa8-839b-de19275fb8c7 

▫️19 Men Face Felonies in Waco Prostitution Sting
WACO, Texas — 19 Central Texas men have been arrested on felony charges during a Waco police sting operation, targeting those seeking services from prostitutes. Unbound Now is an organization that fights human trafficking. CEO and Founder Susan Peters weighed in on the sting operation, “For them to come together to combat human trafficking and really identify the buyers, and ultimately to get to the traffickers, is amazing. And to have made the change where they don’t arrest the victims is incredible.” Alongside Chief Victorian, Peters believes prostitution is not a victimless crime.
https://www.fox44news.com/news/local-news/mclennan-county/19-men-face-felonies-in-waco-prostitution-sting/ 

▫️Central PA Massage Parlor Raid Turns Human Trafficking Ring Bust - 10 South-Central Pa. massage parlors targeted in human trafficking investigation
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — The Cumberland County district attorney says 10 Susquehanna Valley massage parlors were targeted during a human trafficking investigation. Women from China working in these establishments are 'paying off' a debt.
» https://www.wgal.com/article/south-central-pennsylvania-10-massage-parlors-targeted-in-human-trafficking-investigation/44977492#       (VIDEO)
» https://www.abc27.com/local-news/district-attorney-10-midstate-massage-parlors-targeted-in-human-trafficking-investigation/       (VIDEO)
» https://dailyvoice.com/pennsylvania/cumberland/central-pa-massage-parlor-raid-turns-human-trafficking-ring-bust-da/ 

▫️Third arrest in Williamsport child trafficking case
WILLIAMSPORT, LYCOMING CO.  — A third man has been arrested by Williamsport police on human trafficking charges. On Aug. 30, Williamsport City Police arrested Victor Eugene Booth, 40, after investigating a case of two juveniles being groomed to perform sex acts. Booth's arrest comes shortly after Jennifer Lynn Gibbs, 36, and Allen Arthur Frazier, 39, were also charged in the investigation.
https://fox56.com/news/local/third-arrest-in-williamsport-child-trafficking-case      (VIDEO)

▫️Sacramento detectives release new information 'serial sexual predator' arrest
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has released more information about the arrest of 35-year-old Kabeh Cummings in New York.   "These cases a lot of times come down to something like DNA, especially in a stranger incident," said Heather Feil, Sacramento County Sergeant Detective.

▫️Pennsylvania man charged with human trafficking after allegedly forcing women to pay sex for drugs
The Bensalem Township Police Special Investigations Unit responded on Thursday to the Inn of the Dove hotel, the police department said in a press release. Police entered the room and discovered two women inside. Police learned after interviewing the women that Dennis Ruoff, 49, was allegedly trafficking them by providing them drugs, using a website to set up "dates" with other men and forcing them to have sex with these men. Ruoff was charged with human trafficking, sexual assault and other offenses.  He is being held at the Bucks County Correctional Facility on 10% of $1 million bail.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/pennsylvania-man-charged-human-trafficking-allegedly-forcing-women-pay-sex-drugs 

▫️Man may face life sentence after accusation of trafficking teen in Wellington
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.  — A man faces life in prison after being accused of grooming a child and exploiting her to engage in commercial sexual acts for financial gain. Raul Brown, 42, known as "JB", was arrested on several charges that include human trafficking of a child for commercial sexual activity and promoting sexual activity of a child, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) says. The investigation into Brown began on June 25 after a deputy was assigned to investigate the sex trafficking of a girl who was a 17-year-old at the time, a PBSO arrest report states.
https://cbs12.com/news/local/raul-brown-accused-of-human-trafficking-child-17-year-old-girl-financial-gain-50-of-earning-florida-august-31-2023 

▫️String of sexual assault cases in Charlotte tied to ex-county health worker
New victims have come forward with accusations against a former Mecklenburg County Public Health employee already charged in a sexual assault case, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officials say. Seven women say Daniel Pitti-Casazola came to their homes and had sexual contact with them under the guise of providing medical care, CMPD officials said at a press conference on Friday.
https://ca.news.yahoo.com/string-sexual-assault-cases-charlotte-205924331.html 

▫️El Camino Health faces new questions over employing doctor accused of molesting teenager decades ago while a Catholic priest
Former Mountain View Mayor Sally Lieber is asking the El Camino Healthcare District to terminate a psychiatrist’s contract and explain what actions it took after the hospital learned in 1988 that the doctor, who has practiced at El Camino Hospital since 1980, was accused of sexual misconduct while a priest in Southern California.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/el-camino-health-faces-new-questions-over-employing-doctor/
» https://www.mv-voice.com/news/2023/08/31/el-camino-health-faces-new-questions-over-employing-doctor-accused-of-molesting-teenager-decades-ago-while-a-catholic-priest 

▫️Miami Beach pain doctor’s lawyers get a surprise when child porn charges announced
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Prosecutors announced new charges in court Friday against a Miami Beach doctor arrested on human trafficking charges. Jeffrey Kamlet, M.D., was arrested in March and then, in June, one of the victims in the case was found dead. As a result, Kamlet’s attorneys were in a Miami-Dade courtroom preparing to request charges be dropped Friday, but instead the state announced new charges related to the same case — discovery of child pornography.
» https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/09/01/miami-beach-pain-doctors-lawyers-get-a-surprise-when-prosecutors-announce-child-porn-charges/       (VIDEO)
» https://www.local10.com/video/local-news/2023/09/01/still-on-house-arrest-formerly-prominent-doctor-now-faces-child-pornography-charges/  

▫️Former Chris Christie aide Kevin Tomafsky arrested on child sex abuse, porn charges: report
A one-time aide to former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was arrested this month for allegedly paying for a photo of a 6-year-old girl being sexually abused. Kevin Tomafsky, 41, was nabbed Aug. 15 after a grand jury indicted him in July on multiple child sexual abuse charges, according to court reports obtained by the New Jersey Globe. Tomafsky had been under investigation since October 2022, when Snapchat reported the uploading of alleged child sex abuse to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which was then sent to the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s office. Tomafsky allegedly received a photo on the app of a young girl engaging in oral sex with an adult after the Gloucester prosecutor’s office reviewed records supplied by Snapchat, the outlet reported.
https://nypost.com/2023/09/02/former-chris-christie-aide-kevin-tomafsky-arrested-on-child-sex-abuse-porn-charges-report/ 

▫️Syracuse Catholic Diocese priest charged with forcibly touching minor over several years
A priest in the Syracuse Catholic Diocese has been charged with forcibly touching a minor over several years, deputies said. Rev. Nathan Brooks, 36, of LaFayette, is accused of touching the minor between 2019 and 2021 in the town of Homer and in the city of Cortland, Cortland County Sheriff’s Office deputies said in a news release Friday. Brooks is an administrator at the Church of the Nativity at St. Joseph in LaFayette, Immaculate Conception in Pompey, St. Leo in Tully and St. Patrick Mission in Otisco.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/syracuse-catholic-diocese-priest-charged-with-forcibly-touching-minor-over-several-years/
» https://www.syracuse.com/crime/2023/09/syracuse-catholic-diocese-priest-charged-with-foribly-touching-minor-over-several-years.html 

▫️Omaha man sentenced sex trafficking minor, production of child pornography
OMAHA, Neb. — An Omaha man was sentenced to prison Friday in federal court for sex trafficking and child pornography charges. Rolando Midder was convicted of sex trafficking of a minor and two counts of production of child pornography in June. A federal judge sentenced Midder to life in prison for the sex trafficking charge, saying “‘egregious’ is too kind of a word” to describe his actions. Midder also received 30 years for each of the production charges.
https://www.ketv.com/article/omaha-man-sentenced-life-in-prison-sex-trafficking-minor-child-pornography/44978008#

▫️Center for human trafficking and child abuse victims lacks space from demand, new location coming
LAS VEGAS, Nev.  - A Las Vegas Valley center to help human trafficking and child abuse victims is full and lacks space from the sheer demand, but a new location coming to meet the growing need. The Southern Nevada Children’s Advocacy Center was accredited in 2009 and helped 900 victims in its first year. Now the center helps 2,000 children every year. The center offers a space to meet with law enforcement, social workers, therapists and medical professionals.
» https://www.fox5vegas.com/2023/09/01/center-human-trafficking-child-abuse-victims-lacks-space-demand-new-location-coming/      (VIDEO)
»

▫️Wichita runner raises awareness for human trafficking prevention
TOPEKA, Kan.  - Tony Brown started his running journey on Sept. 1 to raise awareness to end human trafficking. Brown even received a proclamation from Governor Laura Kelly. He will run 178 miles from Topeka to Wichita into a 5K called “Race 4 Freedom” hosted by ICTSOS. ICTSOS is a non-profit that provides sex trafficking prevention education for kids in schools and advocacy and support for adult survivors.
https://www.wibw.com/2023/09/01/wichita-runner-raises-awareness-human-trafficking-prevention/      (VIDEO) 

▫️San Antonio - New law increases penalty for human trafficking

▫️Attorney General Reyes Joins Coalition to Protect Children From Lewd and Obscene Behavior
This week, Utah Attorney General Sean D. Reyes joined an 18-state coalition supporting Tennessee’s defense of its Adult Entertainment Act (AEA), protecting minors from lewd and obscene behavior. A district court incorrectly ruled against the law, and the attorneys general support the appeal of that initial ruling.
https://attorneygeneral.utah.gov/attorney-general-reyes-joins-coalition-to-protect-children-from-lewd-and-obscene-behavior/ 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News

▫️Former Pennsylvania 911 coordinator charged with sexually abusing children at his home 
SOMERSET COUNTY, Pa.  — A former Pennsylvania 911 coordinator has been charged with sexually abusing five children at his home. According to multiple probable cause affidavits, borough police began investigating 30-year-old Brad Lavan on Jan. 25 after reports of the abuse. The abuse occurred, according to the affidavits, between Jan. 2021 and January of this year when some of the children were at Lavan’s home for sleepovers or play dates with his children. Some of the abuse also occurred in the presence of other children, according to the affidavits. Police charged Lavan Friday in five individual cases. Lavan faces a total of 39 felony and misdemeanor offenses, including multiple counts rape of a child and involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, both first-degree felonies.
» https://fox23maine.com/news/nation-world/former-pennsylvania-911-coordinator-charged-with-sexually-abusing-children-at-his-home-brad-lavan-sex-crimes-felony-misdemeanor-offenses-somerset-county-jail       (VIDEO)
» https://news4sanantonio.com/news/nation-world/former-pennsylvania-911-coordinator-charged-with-sexually-abusing-children-at-his-home-brad-lavan-sex-crimes-felony-misdemeanor-offenses-somerset-county-jail       (VIDEO) 

▫️Mississippi runaway is victim of human trafficking, rape
A Mississippi man and woman are facing felony charges for allegedly drugging a 14-year-old girl and trafficking her to men for sex at Coast hotels, according to authorities. So far, Harrison County sheriff’s deputies have arrested one of the two suspects, identified as Jasmine Lynn Marie Drake, 29, of Long Beach, in custody. She is being held on a felony charge of procuring sexual servitude of a minor, a charge that carries a sentence of anywhere from 20 years to life in prison. A second suspect, identified as Malick “KP” Causey of Pass Christian, is at large, though authorities said U.S. Marshals are in the process of tracking him down.  The girl had been missing since mid-July. The girl “was so full of narcotics (that) we had to take her to detox.”
https://www.sunherald.com/news/local/crime/article278815904.html 

▫️Four Arrested and Six Cited in Prostitution Reduction Operation
On September 1, 2023, the Regional H.E.A.T. (Human Exploitation and Trafficking) Detectives, Regional Narcotics Unit, Regional Sex Offender Notification Unit, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigators, and the Reno Police Downtown Enforcement Team conducted a street-level demand reduction operation by targeting sex purchasers with the use of female undercover detectives. Detectives contacted ten men who solicited the female detectives for sex, in exchange for money. Seven of them were issued a citation for Solicitation of Prostitution.
https://www.2news.com/news/four-arrested-and-six-cited-in-prostitution-reduction-operation/article_3c3e4b4a-49ed-11ee-9a7c-5f97169fd9c8.html
https://www.kolotv.com/2023/09/02/prostitution-john-sting-reno-leads-four-arrests-six-citations/ 

▫️College Professor Among 17 Arrested For Allegedly Trying To Solicit Open-Air Prostitutes
Chernor Barrie, 31, an adjunct lecturer of Arabic at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, was one of the 17 persons arrested while allegedly looking for sex in Brooklyn, East New York.
» https://dailycaller.com/2023/09/03/cuny-professor-sex-offender-arrested-soliciting-open-air-prostitutes-brooklyn-east-new-york/
» https://nypost.com/2023/09/02/cuny-professor-tried-to-solicit-nyc-sex-workers-nypd/ 

▫️Shooting leads to human trafficking charge in SE Portland
PORTLAND, Ore.   Officers stopped a shooting between two cars, and cited a Gresham man for a human trafficking charge early Saturday morning in southeast Portland, according to the Portland Police Bureau. Police discovered the incident fell under the jurisdiction of the human trafficking unit. Detectives responded and cited 45-year-old Steven Lustri of Gresham for commercial sexual solicitation. He was also the intended victim of the shooting.
» https://www.kptv.com/2023/09/02/shooting-leads-human-trafficking-charge-se-portland/      (VIDEO)
» https://www.wibw.com/video/2023/09/03/shooting-leads-human-trafficking-charge-se-portland/      (VIDEO) 

▫️Springfield Police arrest 5 men in undercover 'anti-john' prostitution sting
https://www.westernmassnews.com/video/2023/09/02/police-arrest-5-men-undercover-anti-john-prostitution-sting/       (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Springfield middle school teacher faces more assault involving a minor charges
https://www.westernmassnews.com/video/2023/09/02/former-springfield-middle-school-teacher-faces-more-assault-involving-minor-charges/       (VIDEO) 

▫️Maryland man arrested for alleged sexual solicitation of a minor
A Maryland man was arrested for sexual solicitation of a minor after he allegedly asked for sex from an undercover police officer posing as a teenager. Luis Esteban Borunda, 65, is charged with one count of sexual solicitation of a minor and is being held without bond at the Anne Arundel County Detention Center, Maryland State Police said in a press release. Borunda was allegedly speaking inappropriately over a smartphone app on August 22 with someone he believed was a 13-year-old girl. Now, investigators want to know if there are more young victims who have yet to be identified. They are urging parents whose children may have had contact with Borunda to call them at 1-800-637-5437.
» https://www.foxnews.com/us/maryland-man-arrested-alleged-sexual-solicitation-minor-police
» https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/police-maryland-man-arrested-for-sexual-solicitation-of-a-child-may-have-had-other-victims/ 
  
▫️Police seek kidnapping suspect who failed to appear in court
Police are searching for a kidnapping suspect who failed to appear in court. Matthew Honeycutt was charged with child kidnapping in April. Police say he took a seven-year-old Sarcoxie girl to Oklahoma without her mother’s permission. Authorities issued an Amber Alert when the child was not returned. If you have information on his whereabouts, you’re asked to contact area law enforcement. Jasper County Sheriff’s Office: (417) 358-8177.
» https://www.fourstateshomepage.com/local-news/jasper-county-news/police-searching-for-kidnapping-suspect-who-failed-to-appear-in-court/ 
»

▫️Atlantic City man faces 20 years in sex trafficking of minor
An Atlantic City man arrested for selling a teen into the sex trade pleaded guilty Wednesday. Derrick Ross, 30, was arrested Nov. 27, 2019, after he brought the 14-year-old girl to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino after a man responded to an ad for an online escort. Ross has been jailed since then. He pleaded guilty this week to conspiracy and facilitating human trafficking.
https://breakingac.com/2023/09/atlantic-city-man-faces-20-years-in-sex-trafficking-of-minor/ 

▫️Man charged with sexual abuse of child worked as camp director
WALDEN-  Josh Horner, 34, of Walden, is on administrative leave from his job as the Director at Camp Robbins in Walden following his arrest on charges related to the sexual abuse of a child.  Camp Robbins is a summer camp operated by the YMCA of Middletown.  Horner also served as Club Kid Director for program sites in Cornwall, Pine Bush, Valley Central, and Wallkill which is a before and after-school childcare program. State police asked anyone with additional information about Horner to contact them at 845-344-5300.
https://midhudsonnews.com/2023/09/03/man-charged-with-sexual-abuse-of-child-worked-as-camp-director/ 

▫️Backstreet Boys' Nick Carter facing civil lawsuits in Vegas alleging sexual assault decades ago
Backstreet Boys singer Nick Carter has won a favorable ruling in one of two civil lawsuits filed against him in Nevada, one by a woman who alleges he raped her on his tour bus in Washington state in 2001 and another by a woman who alleges he sexually assaulted her on his boat off Florida in 2003.
https://www.livenowfox.com/news/backstreet-boys-nick-carter-facing-civil-lawsuits-in-vegas-alleging-sexual-assault-decades-ago 
  
▫️CA Senate Bill 14 advances: Steps towards making child trafficking a serious felony
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — UPDATE (11:15 p.m.): Senate Bill 14, a bill introduced by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), has passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee with minor amendments. The bill would make child trafficking a serious felony in California. Anyone convicted of at least three serious felonies in California is punished by a sentence of between 25 years and life in prison under the three-strikes law.
» https://kmph.com/news/local/ca-senate-bill-14-advances-steps-towards-making-child-trafficking-a-serious-felony-senator-shannon-grove      (VIDEO)
» https://www.kget.com/news/local-news/shannon-groves-human-trafficking-bill-passes-assembly-appropriations-committee/ 

▫️Unstoppable You Conference - York, PA
Unstoppable You Ministries, Inc. would like you to join us for the 28th Unstoppable You Conference within ten years, in the 11th state (8th time in York, PA)! This amazing event will be open to in-person attendance. So save the date and get your tickets! The Unstoppable You Conference will be hosted on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 10:00am to 3:30pm. Unstoppable You Ministries provides emergency services, training, and supportive resources to the community, especially to those affected by domestic violence, human trafficking, and homelessness.
https://allevents.in/york/unstoppable-you-conference-york-pa-2023/10000690529571537 

▫️Biden Admin Kneecaps Task Force Charged with Protecting Kids from Predators Amid Criminal Surge
A Department of Justice program directed at digital crimes against children has had its funding cut to levels significantly below that of the Trump administration. This is in spite of the sharply rising incidence of child sexual abuse and exploitation found on social media sites.
https://www.westernjournal.com/biden-admin-kneecaps-task-force-charged-protecting-kids-predators-amid-criminal-surge/ 

▫️RFK Jr. Calls Biden’s Border a ‘Humanitarian Crisis’
“President Biden justified his open borders policy as a humanitarian response to the appalling media revelations that the Trump-era Border Patrol had 2,600 ‘children in cages,’” Kennedy posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Aug. 31. “Today there are 12,000 children in cages + 85,000 children have disappeared.”  In fact, the viral images of “kids in cages” were from the Obama (not Trump) administration, Trump fought human trafficking, the number of child sex trafficking victims rescued annually more than doubled between 2016 and 2020, and Trump’s border policies significantly reduced the flow of illegal immigration (not to mention increased arrests of human traffickers), so Kennedy’s comment about the Trump-era Border Patrol isn’t fair. But his point about Biden is spot on, especially in light of recent revelations that the Biden administration’s policies fuel illegal child labor in the U.S.
https://pjmedia.com/news-and-politics/catherinesalgado/2023/09/02/rfk-jr-calls-bidens-border-a-humanitarian-crisis-n1724036 
  
▫️2,025 students unaccounted for
More Than 2,000 Children From Lahaina Public Schools Still Missing After Maui Wildfires. As officials in Hawaii work to determine the identities of the over 100 people who died in the Maui wildfires, the community fears children will make up a large part of the death toll. When the fast-moving wildfires broke out on August 8, many children were home from school because the dangerous winds of a hurricane off the coast of Hawaii forced school closures. Jessica Sill, an elementary school teacher at Lahaina King Kamehameha III, told the Wall Street Journal that she fears some children were home alone the day of the fires.
» https://rumble.com/v3e4wgd-facts-that-we-know-about-maui-fires-so-far-25-days-since-the-fire-.html
» https://www.eviemagazine.com/post/more-2-000-children-lahaina-public-schools-missing-maui-wildfires
» https://www.newstarget.com/2023-08-29-2000-children-lahaina-public-schools-missing-wildfire.html 

▫️‘War Against the Children’
The Native American boarding school system — a decades-long effort to assimilate Indigenous people before they ever reached adulthood — robbed children of their culture, family bonds and sometimes their lives. The Native American boarding school system was vast and entrenched, ranging from small shacks in remote Alaskan outposts to refurbished military barracks in the Deep South to large institutions up and down both the West and East coasts. Until recently, incomplete records and scant federal attention kept even the number of schools — let alone more details about how they functioned — unknown. The 523 schools represented here constitute the most comprehensive accounting to date of institutions involved in the system. This data was compiled over the course of several years by the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition, a nonprofit advocacy and research organization. The map includes 519 schools with known locations; four schools without a known location were excluded from the map.
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/war-against-the-children/
» https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/08/30/us/native-american-boarding-schools.html 

▫️Boone County: Stop Human Slavery! You Can Make a Difference
Please mark your calendar to attend the Concerned Women for America (CWA) of Missouri Boone County/Columbia Prayer/Action Chapter meeting on Monday, September 18, as we welcome Nanette Ward with Stop Human Trafficking Coalition of Central Missouri. Nanette will be joining us to discuss the harmful effects of human trafficking and what we can do to save those trapped in human slavery.
https://concernedwomen.org/boone-county-stop-human-slavery/ 

▫️State police: YMCA Cornwall's after-school program director arrested for sexual abuse
New York State Police arrested the director of YMCA Cornwall's After School Club Kid Program for sexual abuse. They say they received a complaint about Josh Horner, of Walden, who is accused of sexually abusing a child under 13 years old. Child Protective Services assisted state police to ultimately arrest the 34-year-old. Horner faces multiple charges, including sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child. Anyone with any additional information about Horner should contact state police at 845-344-5300.
https://westchester.news12.com/state-police-ymca-cornwalls-after-school-program-director-arrested-for-sexual-abuse      (VIDEO) 

▫️David Anderson accused of sending dozens of child sexual abuse files
https://www.wsmv.com/video/2023/09/04/man-accused-sending-dozens-child-sexual-abuse-files/     (VIDEO) 

▫️Man arrested, charged with human trafficking in Bensalem
» https://www.fox29.com/video/1273965    (VIDEO) 
»

▫️Accused sex abuser demands speedy trial
An Eagle Grove man charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse has demanded a speedy trial, prompting a jury trial scheduled for Oct. 31. According to court records, 39-year-old Orvelio Ramirez-Abarca has been charged with two counts of second-degree sexual abuse and three counts of third-degree sexual abuse. The law requires the court to begin a trial within 90 days of prosecutors filing the trial information. In this case that happened on Aug. 4. The affidavits state that starting in January, Ramirez-Abarca had sexual relations with a child under the age of 14 at his residence and in his van in the parking lot west of Eagle Grove High School.
https://globegazette.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/eagle-grove-iowa-sex-abuse-trial/article_a64265b0-48f5-11ee-b693-47f6aa16c627.html  

▫️Arizona couple sentenced to 20 years for 'horrific' child abuse. Mom and stepdad who waterboarded 10-year-old girl and set her on fire get decades behind bars
Prosecutors said that Chloe Rae Sergent, 27, and Keola Cachero Wimbish, 40, will each spend 20 years in state prison. Sergent pled guilty to one count each of child abuse and attempt to commit child abuse. Wimbish pled guilty to one count of child abuse and two counts of attempt to commit child abuse.
» https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/2-jailed-for-extreme-child-abuse-an-arizona-heat-death-a-man-brokering-people-this-weeks-top-stories         (VIDEO)
» https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/glendale/2023/08/29/chloe-sergent-and-keola-wimbish-sentenced-to-20-years-for-child-abuse-glendale/70709742007/
» https://lawandcrime.com/crime/mom-and-stepdad-who-waterboarded-10-year-old-girl-and-set-her-on-fire-get-decades-behind-bars/ 

▫️Maryland man arrested for sexual solicitation of a child
Maryland State Police have arrested a man from Baltimore, Maryland, for sexual solicitation of a child. The man, Mark Planamente, was charged with sexual solicitation of a minor and displaying obscene material to a minor. Police suspect there may be other victims.
https://morningsidemaryland.com/maryland-man-arrested-for-sexual-solicitation-of-a-child/ 

▫️Local teacher charged with rape, sexual abuse
A Boyd County High School art teacher is facing third-degree rape and first-degree sexual abuse charges, according to the Boyd County Sheriff’s Office. Boyd County deputies arrested and booked 45-year-old Michael Spears on Saturday, according to the jail website. According to a Boyd County Sheriff’s press release, deputies conducted a joint investigation with Boyd County Schools in reference to alleged sexual misconduct between a juvenile female student and Spears, who has been employed with the school system for about 20 years.
https://www.dailyindependent.com/news/local-teacher-charged-with-rape-sexual-abuse/article_8c15b39c-4a88-11ee-b8a6-3fb2452f5020.html 

▫️Investigators seeking potential victims of Baxley man charged with child exploitation
Investigators are seeking information from anyone who might have had prior contact with Todd Eric Sisk. U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, Jill E. Steinberg, said they are seeking potential victims of the Baxley, Georgia man who has been indicted on multiple child exploitation charges. The City of Baxley is located in Appling County in the Southeastern part of Georgia. Sisk, 48, is charged via federal indictment with attempted production of child pornography. You can provide your information by calling the Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line at 866-347-2423. Your assistance could be crucial in the ongoing investigation.
https://spotlightsouthcobbnews.com/investigators-seeking-potential-victims-of-baxley-man-charged-with-child-exploitation/ 

▫️Human Trafficking Awareness Forum, Focus: HOPE, Detroit, October 28 2023
Are you concerned about the growing issue of human trafficking? Come to the Focus: HOPE center on Oakman Boulevard in Detroit, MI to learn more about this important topic. Our forum will feature expert speakers, survivors sharing their stories, and interactive discussions. Together, we can raise awareness and take action against human trafficking. Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference in our community. Join us at the Human Trafficking Awareness Forum and be part of the solution! NCNW - Detroit Section is an organization whose mission is to address the needs of women and youth through volunteerism in the Metropolitan Detroit community, through a variety of health, education, and economic empowering programs and services.
https://allevents.in/detroit/human-trafficking-awareness-forum/10000710702348857 

▫️DeliverFund: Together, We Can End Human Trafficking in the US
Nonprofit intelligence agency, Our team leverages its counterterrorism experience to transform the human trafficking fight. We deploy the same tactics used to track terrorists to take down human traffickers. Law enforcement is on the frontlines of this fight. Our training, technology, and community are dedicated to equipping them to effectively combat human trafficking in all its forms, wherever it occurs.
https://deliverfund.org/about/what-we-do/ 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Three arrested following child trafficking investigation
OKLAHOMA CITY - Woodward said OBN Agents arrested 28-year-old Aubri Parsons, 38-year-old Jordell Tawan Henderson and 30-year-old Megan Ann Miller.  All three face multiple felony counts, including Human Trafficking of a Minor and Publication of Child Pornography.
“I am extremely pleased to report that the victim is in a facility designed to help victims of human trafficking and she is doing very well," said OBN Director Donie Anderson.  
» https://www.fox23.com/news/three-arrested-following-child-trafficking-investigation/article_564d2ba8-49a4-11ee-9c81-eb9f24b13a03.html 
»

▫️366 illegal foreign nationals targeted for removal arrested in ICE operation
A national operation led to 366 criminal illegal foreign nationals being arrested and targeted for removal by Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) agents. The operation targeted criminals who were determined “to be a threat to national security, public safety or border security.” Those arrested also had criminal convictions for certain felonies or other crimes including “murder for hire, manslaughter, sex crimes against children, assault with a firearm, battery, domestic violence, drug trafficking, possession of a controlled substance and driving under the influence,” ICE said in a statement. In fiscal year 2022, ICE ERO agents arrested 46,396 illegal foreign nationals with criminal histories including 198,498 associated charges and convictions. The charges and convictions include 21,531 assault offenses; 8,164 sex and sexual assault offenses; 5,554 weapons offenses; 1,501 homicide-related offenses; and 1,114 kidnapping offenses. In fiscal year 2022, ICE ERO agents also conducted 72,177 removals to over 150 countries.
https://www.kulr8.com/news/national/366-illegal-foreign-nationals-targeted-for-removal-arrested-in-ice-operation/article_f4c0e7aa-f602-552d-8a90-390889009f2c.html
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-new-york-city-arrests-38-criminal-noncitizens-during-nationwide-enforcement
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-los-angeles-arrests-38-noncitizens-criminal-convictions-during-nationwide 

▫️Mother of missing teen fears human trafficking
ST. LOUIS, Mo. - St. Louis County Police are investigating the disappearance of a 16-year-old Affton girl. Juliana Lewis hasn’t been seen since Aug. 22, according to her mother, Julia Johnson. Johnson said she believes her daughter ran away with a Hispanic man she met online. She said her daughter texted a friend that the man was being controlling and then Juliana’s social media accounts were deleted.
https://www.kmov.com/2023/09/04/mother-missing-teen-fears-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Virginia girl ran away from home and was a victim of sex trafficking after her school hid her gender transition from her family
A Virginia mother is suing a school district and a public defender in the Baltimore, Maryland area due to her daughter being trafficked after the school failed to disclose her daughter's gender transition. Michele Blair, mother of Sage, a young victim of human trafficking and sexual abuse, revealed to the Washington Examiner that she is filing a lawsuit with the Child & Parent Rights Campaign (CPRC) against the Appomattox County School Board and district staff for hiding her daughter's gender transition and systematic bullying at school. Now the young woman is undergoing "intensive in-patient and outpatient therapy to address the multiple incidents of extreme trauma caused by Defendants’ acts and omissions."
» https://voz.us/virginia-girl-ran-away-from-home-and-was-a-victim-of-sex-trafficking-after-her-school-hid-her-gender-transition-from-her-family/?lang=en
» https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/restoring-america/fairness-justice/mother-trafficked-virginia-girl-sues-school-gender-transition 

▫️CPD issues alert after attempted kidnapping on SW Side. Police search for man who tried to kidnap children in Bridgeport
CHICAGO - Chicago Police Monday night were on the hunt to find a man behind an attempted kidnapping in Bridgeport over the weekend. Authorities said at 8:10 a.m. Sunday, three kids were playing near the 3100 block of South Halsted Street when a man asked them if he could use their cellphone. He then tried to get the victims into his vehicle, police said. A witness intervened, and the man left in the gray four-door sedan, police said. 
» https://news.yahoo.com/cpd-issues-alert-attempted-kidnapping-222112573.html       (VIDEO)
» https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/police-search-man-tried-kidnap-children-bridgeport/ 

▫️Police: Tip leads to arrest of non-compliant sex offender
WEST CITY, Ill.  - West City Police said an anonymous tip led to the arrest of a non-compliant sext offender on Monday evening, September 4. Police said Rutherford was wanted on active warrants for failure to register as a sex offender in Washington County, Ill., and violation of bail bond in Jefferson County, Ill. In addition to the arrest warrants out of Washington and Jefferson Counties, Rutherford was charged with retail theft and aggravated battery.
https://www.kfvs12.com/2023/09/05/police-tip-leads-arrest-non-compliant-sex-offender/ 

▫️Texas 10 Most Wanted Sex Offenders
https://www.dps.texas.gov/Texas10MostWanted/MostWanted/SexOffenders 

▫️Campbellsville man accused in child sexual abuse investigation
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Police arrested a Kentucky man in a child sexual abuse investigation. According to Kentucky State Police, 55-year-old Michael Gribbins of Campbellsville was arrested Monday, Sept. 4. He faces charges including engaging in an unlawful transaction with a minor, engaging in an illegal sex act, rape, sodomy and sexual abuse.
https://www.wdrb.com/news/crime-reports/campbellsville-man-accused-in-child-sexual-abuse-investigation/article_a7c440de-4bfc-11ee-9e95-5b34a56e562b.html 

▫️Several Hamilton County men arrested in human trafficking operation

▫️Cortland Priest arrested for child sex abuse
A priest ordained by the Catholic Diocese of Syracuse has been arrested for sexual abuse allegations. On August 31, the Cortland County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Reverend Nathan Brooks, 36, of Lafayette. Brooks allegedly subjected one individual to inappropriate sexual contact on multiple occasions from 2019 to 2021 in the Town of Homer and in the City of Cortland. Brooks was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, forcible touching, and sexual abuse in the third degree. According to a news release from the Diocese, Brooks has been suspended from all priestly ministry at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
» https://www.binghamtonhomepage.com/news/syracuse-catholic-diocese-priest-arrested-for-child-sex-abuse/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/cortland-priest-arrested-for-child-sex-abuse/ 

▫️Convicted child molester faces 100-year prison sentence
John Manuel Cardoza Jr. was found guilty last week in a Yuba County court of eight counts related to the sexual molestation of a child and now faces a maximum possible aggregate sentence in excess of 100 years to life in prison, the Yuba County District Attorney's Office said. Yuba County Superior Court Judge Benjamin Wirtschafter found Cardoza guilty on Aug. 30 with sentencing scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 23, the DA's office said.
https://news.yahoo.com/convicted-child-molester-faces-100-021800564.html 

▫️Mexican journalist investigates human trafficking in U.S. court proceedings
Mexican journalist Juan Alberto Vázquez decided to attend the hearing and was surprised by the case. Five men from the municipality of San Miguel Tenancingo, in the Mexican state of Tlaxcala, who were part of a criminal human trafficking group had pleaded guilty to racketeering, sex trafficking and other federal charges. Although he was already aware of the existence of Mexican trafficking networks operating in the United States, Vázquez was unaware of the size and scope of criminal groups from Mexico's second-smallest state. The journalist became interested in the subject and investigated thoroughly. Through court documents and hearing transcripts, he learned the gruesome details of how these sex trafficking rings operate. He found that entire families run million-dollar trafficking businesses from San Miguel Tenancingo. But what surprised him the most was that few of these stories reach the press and society in Mexico.  He undertook the task of conducting an in-depth investigation of sex trafficking in New York to reveal a complete picture of the problem.
https://latamjournalismreview.org/articles/mexican-journalist-finds-resources-in-u-s-courts-to-investigate-mexican-human-trafficking-rings/ 

▫️'One crime that touches every other': Anti-human trafficking conference set for Sept. 16
Milwaukee residents, police to brainstorm sex trafficking solutions at conference. “Human trafficking is the one crime that touches every other crime,” said Debbie Lassiter, chief executive and co-founder of Convergence Resource Center, a local faith-based nonprofit that has served survivors of trauma, including domestic violence, trafficking and sexual assault, for nearly 20 years. Event information:
What: 9th Annual "The Epidemic and The Game" conference
When: Sept. 16, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Where: Radisson Hotel Milwaukee West, 2303 North Mayfair Road, Milwaukee.
https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/crime/2023/09/05/milwaukee-residents-police-fight-human-sex-trafficking-convergence-resource-epidemic-game-conference/70758005007/ 

▫️Anti-trafficking advocate blasts Big Tech as modern-day 'pimps'
Jaco Booyens, who consulted on the box office hit “Sound of Freedom,” will be speaking in Minnesota later this month. Filmmaker, entrepreneur and advocate Jaco Booyens has been on the frontlines rescuing kids for more than two decades. He will bring his message to Waite Park on Sept. 14 for a fundraiser. He joined Liz Collin Reports to discuss how this work is personal for him. “In 1994, I was 18 and my sister was trafficked. She was 12 years old. We didn’t know it was trafficking at the time. That’s when this journey started for us,” Booyens said.
https://alphanews.org/anti-trafficking-advocate-blasts-big-tech-as-modern-day-pimps/ 

▫️Tim Tebow Foundation Birthday Fundraiser Raises Over $1 Million to Combat Human Trafficking
Last month, former football star Tim Tebow announced on Instagram that the Tim Tebow Foundation (TTF) was launching unKNOWN—a public campaign to generate $1 million towards combating human trafficking and child sexual exploitation by his 36th birthday. To date, Tebow’s fundraiser has raised more than $1.3 million. For over 10 years, Tebow said his organization has expanded its impact across 30 countries to create and operate 20 safe homes with 22 more in progress. The organization also claims to have protected over 2,000 victims while helping bring 500+ perpetrators to justice. MinistryWatch reached out to TTF to ask how they brought justice to over 500 perpetrators and how they cared for the 2,000+ trafficking survivors.
https://ministrywatch.com/tim-tebow-foundation-birthday-fundraiser-raises-over-1-million-to-combat-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Prosecutors in all 50 states urge Congress to fight AI child sexual abuse images
COLUMBIA, S.C. - The top prosecutors in all 50 states are urging Congress to study how artificial intelligence can be used to exploit children through pornography, and come up with legislation to further guard against it. In a letter sent Tuesday to Republican and Democratic leaders of the House and Senate, the attorneys general from across the country call on federal lawmakers to "establish an expert commission to study the means and methods of AI that can be used to exploit children specifically" and expand existing restrictions on child sexual abuse materials specifically to cover AI-generated images.
» https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/south-carolina/articles/2023-09-05/prosecutors-in-all-50-states-urge-congress-to-strengthen-tools-to-fight-ai-child-sexual-abuse-images
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12482943/Prosecutors-50-states-urge-Congress-strengthen-tools-fight-AI-child-sexual-abuse-images.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

--------------------------

https://www.oann.com/newsroom/lori-vallow-cult-mom-appeals-conviction-after-being-found-guilty-of-murdering-her-2-children/

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️NYPD: 17 men arrested, charged for trying to purchase sex     (VIDEO)
A recent NYPD crackdown on a block in Brooklyn has put 17 men behind bars for trying to purchase sex. The intersection of Wortman and Alabama avenues, is home to warehouses, bus drivers and sex workers. This past weekend, 17 men between the ages of 20 and 59 were arrested on that block and charged with patronizing prostitution.
https://bronx.news12.com/nypd-17-men-arrested-charged-for-trying-to-purchase-sex 

▫️26 arrested after statewide investigation tracking online predators
BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. - The Bryan County Sheriff’s Office was part of a several months-long statewide investigation with the GBI and other sheriff’s offices. They say the goal of this operation was to arrest online predators of children. That investigation led to the arrest of 26 different offenders.
https://www.wtoc.com/2023/09/05/26-arrested-after-statewide-investigation-tracking-online-predators/     (VIDEO) 

▫️2 charged with human trafficking, prostitution, armed robbery at Tri-State motel
CINCINNATI  - Two out-of-state men are accused of forcing a victim into sex work at a Tri-State motel and other ones around the country, court and arrest records show. Prince Omigie, 36, of Amityville, N.Y., and Ryan Whitten, 29, of Chattanooga, Tenn. are under arrest on charges of human trafficking, prostitution and armed robbery. “It was discovered during the interview that (Whitten and Omigie) committed crimes against another victim by way of involuntary forcing the victim into sex work across several states,” police wrote in Whitten’s arrest report.
https://www.fox19.com/2023/09/06/2-charged-with-human-trafficking-prostitution-armed-robbery-tri-state-motel/    (VIDEO) 

▫️Fort Bend Co. Crime: 3 men arrested in human smuggling case
FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas - Jose Aguirre, 24, Jose Aguirre Martin, 22, and Orlando Noe Betancur Flores, 21, have been arrested and charged in connection to a human smuggling scheme, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office. The Human Trafficking Unit investigation led to information regarding kidnapping and human smuggling of immigrants, five of whom were recovered at a residence, officials said. The immigrants were allegedly illegally smuggled from Mexico. The five victims were being held captive in a locked un-air-conditioned garage pending payment of additional money.
https://www.fox26houston.com/news/fort-bend-co-crime-3-men-arrested-in-human-smuggling-case 

▫️Officials describe 'serial sexual predator' behavior of man arrested

New York Club Kid Director Sexually Abused Hudson Valley Kids
New York State Police, working in conjunction with Child Protective Services, received a complaint about a child under the age of 13-years-old being sexually abused by 34-year-old Josh Horner of Walden, New York. The investigation led to Horner’s arrest on Monday. He was charged with sexual abuse in the first degree, a felony and endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor. At the time of his arrest Horner was the Camp Director at Camp Robbins in Walden, NY, and Club Kid Director for program sites in Cornwall, Pine Bush, Valley Central, and Wallkill, according to the YMCA Middletown.
https://hudsonvalleypost.com/new-york-club-kid-director-sexually-abused-hudson-valley-kids-sp/ 

▫️Miramar man accused of raping trafficked teen who ran away from foster care
MIRAMAR, Fla. – A Miramar man faces multiple felony charges after authorities accused him of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl who ran away from a Miami Gardens foster facility and subsequently ended up becoming a human trafficking victim. Police, who had been informed of the girl’s disappearance and possible links to sex trafficking, said Christopher Velazco, 27, of Miramar, and Jeremy Soto, 20, drove the girl to a home on West 25th Place in Hialeah, in a red Lexus registered to Jeffery, on Feb. 13, just after she spent the night with Jeffery. Velazco, Soto and the teen went there in order to pick up another 15-year-old girl who was friends with the victim in order to sell her for sex as well, the warrant states.
https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/09/05/miramar-man-accused-of-raping-trafficked-teen-who-ran-away-from-foster-care/ 

▫️Police: Ex-New Fairfield man arrested on child abuse charges
NEW FAIRFIELD — A former resident is facing nine felony and six misdemeanor charges over allegations of physical and sexual abuse against children, according to the warrant for his arrest. Matthew Davis, 54, was arrested on seven counts of illegal sexual contact of a victim under 16, six counts of fourth-degree sexual assault and two counts of risk of injury to child following a three-month investigation into a report about suspected child abuse.
https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/new-fairfield-matthew-davis-arrest-child-abuse-18347628.php 

▫️Sadist sommelier gets 14 years after flying to Dallas to ‘break’ human trafficking victim
FORT WORTH – The feds have nabbed at least four men who responded to their online posting seeking a sadist to “break” a reluctant victim. The latest is a San Francisco wine expert. The man responded to a listing seeking an “experienced sadist” to “break” a young victim for sex work. Ian Justin Ranney, 35, did not know it was part of a Dallas law enforcement sting operation when he answered the ad placed by an agent posing as a human trafficker. Federal agents arrested him in November when he showed up to a North Texas warehouse with tools of torture. Ranney pleaded guilty in February to attempted kidnapping and possession of child pornography.
https://www.dallasnews.com/news/crime/2023/09/06/sadist-sommelier-gets-14-years-after-flying-to-dallas-to-break-human-trafficking-victim/ 

▫️Man arrested for abduction of teenage girl
MARTINSVILLE, Va. - A Houston man has been arrested for the abduction of a teenage girl Monday, according to Martinsville Police. Cody Lee Lopez, 31, was charged with abduction and computer solicitation of a minor. He is being held in North Carolina awaiting extradition to Virginia. Tuesday morning, Lopez and the girl were found in Charlotte, North Carolina by United States Marshals, and he was arrested.
https://www.wdbj7.com/2023/09/05/man-arrested-abduction-teenage-girl/    (VIDEO) 

▫️Sex offender arrested in Kootenai County working at North Idaho State Fair
KOOTENAI COUNTY, ID. - A registered sex offender was arrested at the North Idaho State Fair & Rodeo for working at the carnival in violation of his probation. According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the Idaho Department of Corrections received a tip on August 25 that 75-year-old Richard J. Landreth of Coeur d'Alene was working at the fair.
https://www.kxly.com/news/sex-offender-arrested-in-kootenai-county-working-at-north-idaho-state-fair/article_4db7e5a4-4c34-11ee-8264-27ce43eb3930.html    (VIDEO) 

▫️Denver Musician Who Called Out Sexual Predators Now a Convicted Sex Offender
Ross Swirling, a political activist and onetime prominent member of the local punk music scene, has spent years using the internet to call out alleged perpetrators of sexual assault — and anyone who associates with them. But this summer, Swirling himself was convicted of attempted sexual assault on a minor, and a condition of his probation sentence had him kicked off the internet.
https://www.westword.com/news/denver-musician-who-called-out-sexual-predators-now-a-convicted-sex-offender-17578252 

▫️Kenroy Elementary custodian arrested on suspicion of child rape
WENATCHEE — A Kenroy Elementary School custodian has been arrested on suspicion of first-degree child rape and two counts of first-degree incest, becoming the second Eastmont School District employee to be accused of sexual misconduct against a child in the past month. Nicholas Joseph Turner, 40, was arrested last Friday after a 15-year-old female relative described an October 2011 incident in which Turner had raped her to an investigator, according to a probable cause affidavit filed on Tuesday. The girl would have been a three-year-old at the time.
https://www.ncwlife.com/news/kenroy-elementary-custodian-arrested-on-suspicion-of-child-rape/article_4d861fea-4c4a-11ee-b3ab-4fba47eee3d0.html 

▫️Diocese of Buffalo announces substantiated claim of abuse
As a result of an investigation conducted through the Independent Review Board, Bishop Michael W. Fisher has accepted the board’s recommendation and has determined that a claim made against retired priest Father Joseph Vatter that he had abused a minor female has been substantiated. Bishop Fisher had placed Father Vatter on administrative leave in February 2023.
» https://buffalonews.com/news/local/buffalo-diocese-priest-joseph-vatter-abuse/article_1d1e16bc-4c24-11ee-a0f4-3f7603baaebf.html 
» https://wnycatholic.org/2023/09/05/diocese-of-buffalo-announces-substantiated-claim-of-abuse/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/diocese-of-buffalo-announces-substantiated-claim-of-abuse/

▫️Attorney General Bonta Calls on Congressional Leaders to Protect Children Against AI-Driven Exploitation
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a bipartisan coalition of 54 states and territories in sending a letter to Congressional leaders calling for the creation of an expert commission to study how artificial intelligence (AI) can and is being used to exploit children through child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The coalition asks that the expert commission propose legislation to protect children from those abuses. As the U.S. Department of Justice notes, “The production of CSAM creates a permanent record of the child’s victimization.”
https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-calls-congressional-leaders-protect-children-against-ai 

▫️People in SC invited to take part in global event, take steps to fight human trafficking
TRAVELERS REST, S.C. — The third annual Upstate Walk for Freedom is happening on Sat, Oct. 14, at Trailblazer Park in Travelers Rest, South Carolina, from 10 a.m. to noon. "It's a 2-mile silent walk to raise awareness about human trafficking," said Diana Kindley, co-chair of the Upstate Human Trafficking Taskforce. The walk is hosted by the Upstate Human Trafficking Taskforce and the faith-based nonprofit Heart For Freedom.
»

▫️Town hall about human trafficking is Sept. 12 in Georgetown
GEORGETOWN — A town hall regarding human trafficking will be held at Sussex Central High School at 6 p.m. Sept. 12, the Sussex County Republican Party announced Monday. Organized by the county’s Republican Committee and Senate Republicans, it will feature a panel of local experts to discuss the crime and its presence in Delaware.
https://baytobaynews.com/stories/human-trafficking-town-hall-to-be-held-in-georgetown-sept-12,116221 

▫️31:8 Project is helping human trafficking survivors
BISMARCK, ND - The 31:8 Project is dedicated to helping survivors of human trafficking and raising awareness about this issue in the 701. The local non-profit is hosting the Harvest Moon Soiree on October 7 at SixTeen03 Main Events in Bismarck.
https://www.kxnet.com/studio701/well-being/318-project-is-helping-human-trafficking-survivors/
https://www.318project.org/ 

▫️Nonprofit that helps fly human trafficking survivors to safety celebrates one-year anniversary
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  — A Nashville nonprofit is celebrating its one-year anniversary after helping dozens of human trafficking survivors escape their abusers with plane rides at no-cost to them. For the past 12 months, Freedom Aviation Network has helped transport 65 trafficking survivors along with their advocates. For co-founder and chief operating officer, Stephanie Lamar, the mission hits close to home. 
https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/nonprofit-that-helps-fly-human-trafficking-survivors-to-safety-celebrates-one-year-anniversary/ 

▫️South Florida gears up for film screening highlighting global human trafficking crisis
An eye-opening cinematic experience is set to take center stage at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center on September 9th, which will shed light on the dire issue of global human trafficking. The event will be a screening of “KANNANI,” a poignant film directed by Nigerian Tola Olatunji. About the film: Kanaani: The film offers a sobering glimpse into the lives of two young lovers who embark on a journey to The Promise Land (Kanaani) in search of better opportunities, only to face a stark reality that shatters their dreams.
https://www.caribbeannationalweekly.com/entertainment/south-florida-gears-up-for-film-screening-highlighting-global-human-trafficking-crisis/
https://www.showpass.com/kanaani-movie-premier/ 

 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Fort Bend: 5 people being held captive rescued in Meadows Place
FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas — Five people were rescued from a home in Fort Bend County after they were being held for ransom, deputies said. The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office said this was a kidnapping and human smuggling scheme in which the victims -- three men and two women -- were smuggled out of Mexico and held captive until their relatives sent more money than originally agreed upon.
https://www.khou.com/article/news/crime/fort-bend-county-hostage-ransom/285-c58f79ab-4f81-4f76-8d39-bf209046ffc5       (VIDEO) 

▫️U.S. Marshals Assist Lake and Geauga Counties With Sex Offender Compliance
Painesville, OH – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in conjunction with the Lake and Geauga County Sheriff’s Offices conducted a sex offender compliance operation during the month of August. The operation started on August 1, 2023, and lasted through August 25, 2023. During this span, officers conducted checks on two hundred and twenty-three (223) registered sex offenders in Lake and Geauga Counties. Two hundred and nineteen (219) of the offenders were found in compliance with federal and state sex offender laws. Four offenders were not in compliance and are under investigation, and three arrests were made for criminal violations.
» https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/us-marshals-assist-lake-and-geauga-counties-sex-offender-compliance
» https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/09/06/us-marshals-check-223-sex-offenders-lake-geauga-counties/ 

▫️Unadilla Township Man Bound Over In Human Trafficking Case
A Unadilla Township man is heading to trial in connection with a human trafficking case and holding a woman captive for years. Unadilla Township Police arrested 53-year-old Daryl Lanzon on a multiple-count felony warrant May 26th. Lanzon was in 53rd District Court in Howell for an exam on August 31st. Court records show he was bound over for trial on 14 charges that include 1st degree criminal sexual conduct with personal injury, 3rd degree CSC by force or coercion, unlawful imprisonment, assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder, human trafficking, using a computer to commit a crime, and possession of a weapon by a felon.  Police said she was subjected to this for another 5 years before she was able to escape in 2020.
https://www.whmi.com/news/article/unadilla-daryl-lanzon-human-trafficking 

▫️Man arrested for crimes against children charges for third time in 2 years
MERIDEN, CT  - For the third time in two years, Anthony Lazzari was arrested by police for crimes against children, which included commercial sexual abuse of a minor. In 2021, Lazzari was arrested for criminal attempt at promoting a minor in an obscene performance, commercial sexual abuse of a minor, promoting prostitution, and enticing a minor. On Aug. 7, 2023, Lazzari was arrested by the Meriden police with help from Middletown police for possession of child pornography. On Aug. 31, another arrest warrant was issued for Lazzari for the violations of commercial sexual abuse of a minor, patronizing prostitution, and fourth-degree sexual assault.
Police asked anyone with information to call Meriden detectives at 203-630-6294.
https://www.wfsb.com/2023/09/05/man-arrested-crimes-against-children-charges-third-time-2-years/ 

▫️Child pornography case: FBI seeking unidentified man seen in video with child sexual assault victim
The FBI is seeking information on an unidentified man who officials say was seen on video with a possible child sexual assault victim. The unidentified man, referred to as John Doe 47 by the FBI, was first recorded with a child by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in August 2020. Officials say he was heard speaking English in the video. Anyone with information is urged to submit a tip on the FBI's website or should call the FBI's toll-free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
https://abc13.com/child-sexual-assault-victim-national-center-for-missing-and-exploited-children-fbi-sex-operation-rescue-me/13748022/ 

▫️Wanted AGAIN: One of the first fugitives featured on Cuyahoga’s Most Wanted is at it again
CLEVELAND, Ohio - Charles Hudson has failed to register his address with the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, and according to Crime Stoppers has committed a new slew of crimes. Hudson has prior violent felony arrests for domestic violence, assaults, heroin trafficking, in addition to sex offenses in 2009 from Medina County where the victim was a 15 year-old girl. Anyone with information on Hudson’s whereabouts should contact Crime Stoppers at 216-252-7463. Tips that lead to an arrest and a conviction could be eligible for up to a $5,000 reward.
» https://www.cleveland19.com/2023/09/07/wanted-again-one-first-fugitives-featured-cuyahogas-most-wanted-is-it-again/
» https://headtopics.com/us/wanted-again-one-of-the-first-fugitives-featured-on-cuyahoga-s-most-wanted-is-at-it-again-43799869 

▫️Charles County Police Seeking Waldorf Man Wanted for Sexual Child Abuse
UPDATE: Charles County Sheriff’s investigators located a man wanted in connection with multiple counts of sexual child abuse.  Katravien Tyrieus Vercher, 24, of Waldorf, turned himself in to authorities on September 5. Anyone with additional information is asked to call Detective Sapienza at 301-609-3282 ext. 0588. 
https://smnewsnet.com/archives/524348/charles-county-police-seeking-waldorf-man-wanted-for-sexual-child-abuse/ 

▫️Teacher among five implicated in Chattanooga human trafficking operation
A recent human trafficking operation in Chattanooga has implicated five men, one of whom is David Acevedo, a special education teacher at Calvin Donaldson Elementary in Hamilton County. Hamilton County Schools (HCS) confirmed Acevedo's involvement and suspended him without pay on August 29 pending an investigation. The two-day sting was conducted by various law enforcement agencies, including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), on August 25th and 26th.
https://www.local3news.com/local-news/teacher-among-five-implicated-in-chattanooga-human-trafficking-operation/article_50766bd4-4d1b-11ee-a999-77740c1d1437.html 

▫️62-year-old accused of raping multiple children in Marion County; other victims possible
MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A 62-year-old man accused of raping multiple children has been arrested in Marion County, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies arrested Anthony Outar on multiple charges, including sexual battery, lewd or lascivious molestation, tampering with a witness and human trafficking for commercial sexual activity. During the investigation, detectives learned there were three other victims who were raped by Outar, the sheriff’s office said. The sheriff’s office believes there could be other victims and anyone who may have been victimized is asked to call Detective Caitlin Hartigan at 352-368-3535.
» https://www.wesh.com/article/man-abused-children-marion-county/45015075#     (VIDEO)
» https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/09/05/62-year-old-accused-of-raping-multiplechildren-in-marion-county-other-victims-possible/ 

▫️Man arrested for continuous sexual abuse of a child, BCSO says
A 20-year-old man was arrested Wednesday afternoon for grooming a child for multiple years, according to Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar.

▫️Huron County man sentenced Tuesday for child sex crimes
HURON COUNTY, Mich. - A Filion man was sentenced to spend up to 20 years in prison following his guilty pleas to child exploitation charges. A Huron County judge sentenced 71-year-old Dale Ignash on Tuesday to spend 40 months to 20 years behind bars. Ignash pleaded guilty to three felonies in July, including child sexually abusive material, using a computer to commit a crime and accosting a child for immoral purposes.
https://www.abc12.com/news/crime/huron-county-man-sentenced-tuesday-for-child-sex-crimes/article_9e446f38-4c4d-11ee-9fda-b333ccadcbc0.html 

▫️Arlington ISD: Former teacher arrested for child sex crimes
ARLINGTON, Texas — A former Arlington Independent School District teacher has been arrested for allegedly having improper relationships with multiple students, the Arlington Police Department (APD) announced Wednesday. According to APD, 25-year-old Anthony Hawkins was taken into custody on Tuesday, Sept. 5, by detectives with the department’s Crimes Against Children Unit.
https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/former-arlington-isd-teacher-accused-of-having-improper-relationships-with-multiple-students/287-da51b7e6-a3af-4f96-b7e5-457afae70a75 

▫️Paedophile posed as model scout online to target children in UK and USA
A Winsford man has been caged for 30 years for a string of sex offences against children as young as six after posing as a model scout, among other fake identities he assumed. David Harmes, 27, formerly of Wharton Gardens, Winsford, pleaded guilty to 88 sex offences involving 39 victims in the UK and six in the USA. Offences committed include possessing, making and distributing indecent images, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, sexual communication with a child and engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child.
https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/paedophile-posed-model-scout-online-27665823?int_source=nba  

▫️Archer Man Arrested for Human Trafficking of a Minor
GAINESVILLE - Eric Levon West, 35, of Archer, was arrested on Friday, Aug. 25, and charged with two counts of human trafficking of a minor, two counts of traveling to meet a minor for unlawful sexual contact, two counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor and possession of marijuana with intent to sell after allegedly picking up two 16-year-old girls and giving them marijuana in exchange for sex.
https://www.alachuacountytoday.com/news-featured/latest/5885-archer-man-arrested-for-human-trafficking-of-a-minor 

▫️Judge says ‘no bail’ for accused sexual Sacramento predator arrested in New York
»

▫️Baltimore Archdiocese considers bankruptcy amid possible sex abuse lawsuits 
The Archdiocese of Baltimore will consider filing for bankruptcy as it awaits the implementation of a new law that will end the statute of limitations for civil lawsuits for negligence in relation to child sexual abuse. Effective Oct. 1, the law will allow a victim of child sex abuse to sue private entities for up to $1.5 million if he or she can show the organization failed to properly respond to sexual abuse that occurred under its watch. Previously, the statute of limitations was seven years after the victim’s 18th birthday.
» https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255295/baltimore-archdiocese-considers-bankruptcy-amid-possible-sex-abuse-lawsuits
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/baltimore-archdiocese-considers-bankruptcy/ 

▫️Assembly task force will examine human trafficking in Wisconsin
A state Assembly task force will examine human trafficking in Wisconsin. Task force chair, Representative Jerry O’Connor (R-Fond du Lac) said that while many victims are transported through major cities in the region, human trafficking in our state is a bigger problem that most realize and also occurs in smaller communities. O’Conner said the goal of the bipartisan panel created by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos will be to craft legislation that targets those who take advantage of victims
https://www.wrn.com/2023/09/assembly-task-force-will-examine-human-trafficking-in-wisconsin/ 

▫️Two charged in child sex assault; facing felony charges
RICHFIELD — A 33-year-old man is facing felony charges after police said he sexually abused a child. Joshua Edward Hughes, of Richfield, was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Tuesday on two counts of rape, one count of sexual contact with a minor, five counts of aggravated assault of a child and five counts of indecent assault of a person under 13. Additionally, Christie Lynn Foose, 38, of Richfield is being charged for child endangerment.
https://www.lewistownsentinel.com/news/local-news/2023/09/two-charged-in-child-sex-assault-facing-felony-charges/ 

▫️Casper Man Accused Of Molesting Kids Faces Up To 440 Years If Convicted
A Casper man faces up to 440 years in prison if convicted of sexually abusing at least one toddler, child and teenager. James Maxwell Brite, who is 39 this year, faces 23 felony charges in the Natrona County District Court ranging from first-degree to third-degree sexual abuse of a minor. Originally charged Aug. 18, his case ascended to the felony-level court this week. The affidavit in the case spans numerous interviews over at least five years and at least four potential victims.
https://cowboystatedaily.com/2023/09/06/casper-man-accused-of-molesting-kids-faces-up-to-440-years-if-convicted/ 

▫️Frontlines Team Confronts Pedophile in Nebraska, Arrest Pending Police Investigation
Turning Point USA’s Frontlines team exposed a child predator living in Nebraska. Frontlines recorded hours of incriminating phone calls and text messages between 23-year-old Christopher Carey and the team’s decoy, who he believed to be a 12-year-old girl. Carey, a newly unemployed man in his early 20s, who recently began identifying as a transgender female, started talking with the Frontlines’ decoy in February 2023. He was immediately informed that the girl he was speaking to was underage.
https://www.tpusa.com/live/frontlines-team-confronts-pedophile-in-nebraska-arrest-pending-police-investigation    (VIDEO) 

▫️CBP Officers Arrest Suspect for Sex Offense
CBP officers working at the Champlain Port of Entry encountered a 41-year-old male citizen from Nigeria. During the examination process, CBP officers discovered that the traveler had an active National Crime Information Center warrant for sex offense – against girl – fondling out of Grand Prairie, Texas. Further investigation confirmed the traveler’s identity and the warrant.
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/cbp-officers-arrest-suspect-sex-offense 

▫️Former Orange County basketball coach sentenced to life in prison for child sex assault
A former Orange County basketball coach was sentenced to 150 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting young girls who he coached. Carlos Francisco Juarez, 48, from Costa Mesa, was found guilty of:
– 10 felony counts of a lewd act upon a child under 14
– Seven felony counts of lewd act upon a child
– Two felony counts of oral copulation of a minor under the age of 16
– Two felony counts of sexual penetration by foreign object of a minor
https://ktla.com/news/local-news/former-orange-county-basketball-coach-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-for-child-sex-assault/ 

▫️Walsh University and Not For Sale: One Step At A Time will host the Community Freedom Summit on Saturday, September 30, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
This event will focus on the topic of sextortion. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost will deliver a keynote on the Human Trafficking Initiative he created to build awareness of the problem and empower Ohioans to act. The event will end with a powerful, one-mile Freedom Walk in silence to pray and reflect on those who have been silenced through the tragedy of human trafficking.
https://www.walsh.edu/calendar/2023/09/community-freedom-summit-and-walk.html 

▫️Sep 16 | 2ND Annual LIGHT UP THE DARK - Rocky Hill, CT
Light Up The Dark is an Awareness Event sharing information on Child Trafficking. Become informed and help End Child Trafficking. Sat, Sep 16, 2023 at 1:00 PM. Coe Memorial Park Civic Center, 101 Litchfield St, Torrington, CT, 06790.
https://patch.com/connecticut/rockyhill/calendar/event/20230916/cb7ae077-90eb-4785-a8e5-ea07187e53a8/2nd-annual-light-up-the-dark 

▫️Inside the Boy Scouts 'perversion files' and who is on the list - as Netflix documentary Scouts Honor unveils abuse cover-up and the records get fresh scrutiny
The release of a Netflix documentary has prompted fresh scrutiny of historical records of sexual abuse kept by the Boy Scouts of America. Those records of suspected pedophiles, a 'red flag' list known as the 'perversion files', were kept confidential by the Boy Scouts until they were made public in 2012. They detail accusations of child abuse by scout leaders between 1947 and 2005. Their release led to a deluge of lawsuits - an astonishing 82,000 claims - from victims who say they were molested as scouts, leading the organization to file for bankruptcy in 2020. The Netflix documentary Scouts Honor features survivors, whistleblowers and experts discussing the impact of abuse within the scouts.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12483421/Boy-Scouts-perversion-files-Netflix-documentary-Scouts-Honor.html  

▫️ONU, Hardin County Domestic Relations Court to host human trafficking victim identification and response training
Press Release from Ohio Northern University: Ohio Northern University’s School of Social Sciences and Human Interaction, along with Hardin County Domestic Relations Court, are co-hosting “Identifying and Responding to Juvenile Victims of Human Trafficking Training,” a free seminar for regional criminal justice, social service, and child-serving professionals. The day-long seminar will equip participants with the tools and skills needed to identify and respond to juvenile victims of trafficking in their own communities. The event will be Friday, Oct. 6 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in ONU’s McIntosh Center Ballroom. For more information on the seminar, contact event organizer Keith Durkin, Ph.D., sociology professor and School of Social Sciences and Human Interaction director, at k-durkin@onu.edu or by phone at 419-772-1037.
https://www.hometownstations.com/news/onu-hardin-county-domestic-relations-court-to-host-human-trafficking-victim-identification-and-response-training/article_2b627d56-4ccb-11ee-8742-5b9ce1ac64c2.html 
 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

10 human traffickers arrested during multiagency operation targeting sex trafficking of minors, nine minor victims and three adult victims rescued | ICE
HOUSTON — On Sept. 8, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Houston, FBI Houston, the Houston Police Department and partner agencies from the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance announced the results of a multiagency operation that ran from Aug. 28 through Sept. 7 and targeted known human traffickers involved in the sex trafficking of minors in an area of Houston known as “the Bissonnet Track.” Ten human traffickers were arrested during the operation, including four documented gang members and six gang associates. All 10 individuals were arrested pursuant to federal arrest warrants and are charged with various crimes such as sex trafficking of minors, sex trafficking of minors by force and conspiracy to sex traffic minors. In addition to the criminal arrests, HSI Houston and its Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance partners identified nine minor victims and three adult victims, and they were offered support and recovery services.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/10-human-traffickers-arrested-during-multiagency-operation-targeting-sex-trafficking 

▫️Texas traffic stop nets open warrant arrests for fraud, 5 counts of human trafficking/smuggling
HOUSTON, Texas — A routine traffic stop on E. Sam Houston Pkwy. N. led to the arrest of two individuals, one of whom was wanted for multiple counts of human trafficking. The driver, Brendan Rubio-Perez, was found to have an open warrant with the Harris County Sheriff's Office for fraud. His passenger, Ceciali Manrriquez, was also checked through the Texas Crime Information Center and National Crime Information Center and found to have an open warrant with Edwards County Sheriff's Office for five counts of human trafficking-smuggling. 
https://www.mytexasdaily.com/upper-gulf-coast/texas-traffic-stop-nets-open-warrant-arrests-for-fraud-5-counts-of-human-trafficking-smuggling/article_ddc1d305-6246-5794-aa22-8bf65e5406a3.html 

▫️Operation Closed2Trafficking (UPDATE): Additional Arrest Made In Major Human Trafficking Operation
On Tuesday September 5, 2023, Zigui "Lisa" Zheng was arrested as a result of the human trafficking operation on August 31, 2023.  Zigui Zheng was arrested and charged  with operating a corrupt organization (18 Pa.C.S. § 911) and Dealing in Unlawful Proceeds (18 Pa.C.S. § 5111) among other charges.  Significant amounts of cash and other evidence of labor/sex trafficking were found during the searches.  The Cumberland County Human Trafficking Task Force simultaneously executed search warrants at five (5) massage parlors located in Cumberland County on August 31, 2023.
» https://cumberland.crimewatchpa.com/da/5591/post/update-additional-arrest-made-major-human-trafficking-operation
» https://dailyvoice.com/pennsylvania/cumberland/raid-of-massage-parlors-nets-another-arrest-in-pennsylvania-sex-trafficking-ring-da/ 

▫️High school teacher in Monrovia accused of sex with teen
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. - A high school teacher in Monrovia accused of sexual misconduct with a teen has been arrested - and authorities believe there may be more victims. According to police, 38-year-old Chad Robert Miller of Altadena allegedly met an underage girl on a social media app and exchanged messages with her over five months. They met in person and "engaged in several illicit sexual acts," police said.
» https://www.foxla.com/news/high-school-teacher-monrovia-accused-sexual-misconduct-teen
» https://www.fontanaheraldnews.com/news/inland_empire_news/high-school-teacher-is-arrested-for-allegedly-committing-sexual-acts-with-16-year-old-girl/article_b3892e42-4d8d-11ee-b2d0-e7db1cc2bf45.html 

▫️Morgantown couple arrested in Mexico ‘attempting to purchase’ a young child
According to court documents, Bixler, a registered sex offender, and his wife traveled from their home in Morgantown to Mexico, crossing the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas. Bixler didn’t inform the West Virginia State Police, as required, of his international travel plans. The Bixlers were arrested in Mexico for possession of methamphetamine after authorities there learned that Bixler was attempting to purchase a 7-year-old girl for $5,000, according to court documents.
» https://www.wdtv.com/2023/09/07/morgantown-man-charged-with-trying-buy-child-mexico/         (VIDEO)
» https://mexicodailypost.com/2023/09/07/morgantown-man-charged-with-trying-to-buy-child-in-mexico/
» https://www.mdjonline.com/tribune/regional/morgantown-couple-arrested-in-mexico-attempting-to-purchase-a-young-child/article_47f7f4e0-c00c-5ed9-b9c8-4875024360b6.html 

▫️Suspect arrested in Clayton sexual assault, kidnapping case
CLAYTON, Mo. — A suspect in an assault and kidnapping case has been taken into custody after the Clayton Police Department requested the public's help Thursday in finding him. Police identified 25-year-old Jose Gomez-Velasquez as the suspect in an investigation into the physical and sexual assault of a woman on Aug. 30. In a Thursday evening update, police said he had been taken into custody. Gomez-Velasquez was wanted on several charges, including one count each of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree assault, first-degree sodomy and first-degree sexual abuse, along with two counts of third-degree assault.
https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/clayton-police-searching-suspect-charged-kidnapping-sexual-assault/63-f92ebb45-89d4-4f9a-8921-ea28d206eba8 

▫️Hudson Valley Police Lead International Probe Into Child Predator
A Canadian man was arrested following a joint investigation involving the LPS Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, and the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, in relation to alleged internet luring. Authorities allege 58-year-old Ontario resident Clinton Wilson was using the internet in hopes of connecting with a minor and meeting up with them.
https://hudsonvalleypost.com/hudson-valley-police-lead-international-probe-into-alleged-child-predator/ 

▫️Joint Investigation Leads to Arrest in Out-of-State Child Exploitation Case
Livingston – On September 6, 2023, Investigators with the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI-Baton Rouge Office), East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office began investigating reports of child exploitation in Livingston, La. The investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old Jesus Delacruz of Livingston. Investigators with Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit received information regarding a missing juvenile from Pennsylvania who was possibly brought to Livingston. Through investigative means, investigators identified Delacruz as a suspect and obtained a search warrant for his residence. During the execution of the warrant, investigators recovered a 14-year-old female who was reported missing from Allentown, PA.
https://www.lsp.org/community-outreach/news/joint-investigation-leads-to-arrest-in-out-of-state-child-exploitation-case/ 

▫️Two people arrested on child sex crimes behind bars again: MCSO
MOBILE, Ala. – Two men with a record of sex crimes against children were arrested again by the Mobile County Sherriff’s Office Thursday. Willaim Noletto and Alexxander Taylor were arrested following an investigation by MCSO’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit. Noletto, a registered sex offender, was arrested at his home and was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography. He was previously found guilty of attempted sex abuse of a child under the age of 12 in June 2018. Taylor had previously been arrested in June on four counts of dissemination of child pornography and was out on bond when he was caught again. In his latest arrest, Taylor was charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12, sexual abuse of the first degree and sexual abuse of the second degree.
» https://news.yahoo.com/two-people-arrested-child-sex-220851648.html       (VIDEO)
» https://www.wkrg.com/mobile-county/two-people-arrested-on-child-sex-crimes-behind-bars-again-mcso/ 

▫️Former Georgia youth minister pleads guilty to ‘coaching’ child to produce child pornography
FLOYD COUNTY, Ga. — A former youth minister had pleaded guilty to child molestation charges this week, according to court records. In March 2022, Floyd County police officials announced the arrest of several individuals suspected of producing child pornography in the area after they received tips about the images being created and involving children from ages 2 to 12 years old. Police added that they also rescued a child from a home where the pornography was produced. Of the six people arrested, one was Austin Perkins. Investigators said Perkins was a former youth minister and community leader.
https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/former-georgia-youth-minister-pleads-guilty-coaching-child-produce-child-pornography/5WTII5AYQBHQJJYULX6Z75OI6Y/ 

▫️Police: Teenage boy reports man was sexually abusive at gym in Miami-Dade
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A 15-year-old boy told his father that he was at the gym’s men’s locker room when a stranger started to masturbate while looking at him, according to a report the Miami-Dade Police Department released on Thursday afternoon. The teenage boy reported the man — who a detective later identified as Joseph Noriega — first approached him in the men’s restroom and then followed him to the adjacent locker room on Aug. 28, according to the arrest report. Detectives were asking anyone with information about this or other cases involving Noriega to call Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/09/07/police-teenage-boy-reports-man-was-sexually-abusive-at-gym-in-miami-dade/ 

▫️Recently Indicted Man Wanted For Sexual Child Abuse Surrenders In Charles County
Katravien Tyrieus Vercher, who was recently indicted on charges that include sex abuse of a minor, third-degree sex offense, and other related offenses was at large, though he turned himself in this week, according to officials. Anyone with information regarding Vercher or his alleged offenses has been asked to contact Det. Sapienza at the sheriff's office by calling (301) 609-3282 ext. 0588.
https://dailyvoice.com/maryland/charles/recently-indicted-man-wanted-for-sexual-child-abuse-surrenders-in-charles-county-police/ 

▫️'Rape Hospital' in Midvale did not report years of sex assault, police say
MIDVALE, Utah — Patients at a psychiatric hospital in Midvale have been getting sexually assaulted for years, and employees say they were trained to keep it from police. Highland Ridge Hospital treats both adults and minors. It’s a for-profit facility owned by Acadia Healthcare. Some investigators and employees refer to Highland Ridge Hospital as “The Rape Hospital” because of how frequently patients are assaulted and how infrequently the staff report those cases to police. Officers with Unified Police Department have responded to more than 100 cases at Highland Ridge Hospital since 2019. More than half of those cases are from someone reported to be physically or sexually violent. Individuals may also file a criminal complaint by calling the Unified Police Department at (801) 840 4000 and/ or the Utah Attorney General’s Office at (801) 366 0260 or by filling out this form (https://attorneygeneral.utah.gov/contact/complaint-form/).
https://www.fox13now.com/news/fox-13-investigates/the-rape-hospital-in-midvale-did-not-report-years-of-sex-assault-police-say 

▫️Costa Mesa nanny accused of sexually abusing 17 boys goes on trial
A Costa Mesa nanny used his job to gain trust with parents to get access to their young boys in order to film himself sexually abusing them under the guise of playing with them, Orange County prosecutors said on the first day of the man’s trial Thursday, Sept. 7. Deputy District Attorney Juliet Oliver said that through his nanny service, Matthew Antonio Zakrzewski, 34, persuaded more than a dozen families across Southern California to hire him to take care of their children starting in 2014. 
https://www.ocregister.com/2023/09/07/costa-mesa-nanny-accused-of-sexually-abusing-17-boys-goes-on-trial/ 

▫️HSI San Juan arrests Cataño woman on child exploitation and sex trafficking charges | ICE
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Puerto Rico Crimes Against Children Task Force and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau arrested Daryana González Montañez, a 30-year-old woman from Cataño, for sex trafficking of children, production of child sexual abuse material and transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. According to court documents, from February through March 28, 2023, González Montañez, recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained, advertised, maintained and patronized a 14-year-old girl to engage in sexual activity for profit. González Montañez also employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced the same child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child sexual abuse material.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-san-juan-arrests-catano-woman-child-exploitation-and-sex-trafficking-charges 

▫️HSI Yuma, multiagency case results in extradition of prolific human smuggler from Mexico to the United States | ICE
YUMA, Ariz. — Extensive coordination and cooperation efforts between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities culminated in the extradition of a human smuggler who allegedly operated in Mexicali on the U.S.-Mexico border for several years as part of an international human smuggling conspiracy. Ofelia Hernandez-Salas, 61, was arrested in Mexico pursuant to a U.S. request for her extradition and surrendered to U.S. authorities on Sept. 5 to face charges previously filed in the District of Arizona and unsealed in March. She made her scheduled initial appearance in federal court Sept. 6 in Phoenix, Arizona.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-yuma-multiagency-case-results-extradition-prolific-human-smuggler-mexico-united 

▫️Judges say foster children in Texas are trafficked for sex, while rings specifically target those who lack accommodation
AUSTIN — Trafficking rings lurk near makeshift shelters for abused and neglected children, though the locations are said to be classified, three central Texas judges warned this week. At least two teenage girls in the care of the state’s Child Protective Services recently left a site housing “homeless children” in Bell County and are feared they were subsequently trafficked across state lines and used as prostitutes were employed, the oversight family court judges said at a meeting in Austin this week.
https://localstories.news/tx/judges-say-foster-children-in-texas-are-trafficked-for-sex-while-rings-specifically-target-those-who-lack-accommodation/ 

▫️Three charged in sex assault of migrant held at LaSalle County Regional Detention Center
EL PASO, Texas  – A federal grand jury this week returned a multi-count indictment against three men accused of sexually assaulting a Salvadoran migrant inside a South Texas detention facility. The alleged assault occurred in the early hours of July 16 at the LaSalle County Regional Detention Center, a correctional and detention facility run by the county that holds federal detainees by contract, federal court records show. The victim was being held at the center as a material witness in the federal prosecution of a migrant smuggling case.
https://www.borderreport.com/immigration/migrant-centers/three-charged-in-sex-assault-of-detained-migrant/ 

▫️Louisiana grand jury charges 91-year-old disgraced priest with sexual assault of teenage boy in 1975
NEW ORLEANS  - A state grand jury has charged a now-91-year-old disgraced priest with sexually assaulting a teenage boy in 1975, an extraordinary prosecution that could shed new light on what Roman Catholic Church leaders knew about a child sex abuse crisis that persisted for decades and claimed hundreds of victims. The priest, Lawrence Hecker, has been at the center of state and federal investigations of clergy sex abuse and a deepening scandal over why church leaders failed to report his admissions to law enforcement even as they permitted him to work around children until he quietly left the ministry in 2002. It wasn´t until 2018 that the Archdiocese of New Orleans publicly identified Hecker as a suspected predator when it released its list of "credibly accused" priests.
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-12493675/Louisiana-grand-jury-charges-91-year-old-disgraced-priest-sexual-assault-teenage-boy-1975.html
» https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/disgraced-louisiana-priest-now-91-charged-raping-teenager-1975-rcna104036 

▫️Anti-Trafficking Prayer & Intervention Night
Time: 6:30pm; Campus: Woodlands Campus; Location: K1 Auditorium
Join us as we help raise awareness for the abolition of human trafficking around the Woodlands area in our Intervention Nights. In these nights we directly reach out to women trapped in human trafficking and help build a bridge for their escape. These interventions includes worship, prayer, technology intervention and tours to locations in the Woodlands area to directly speak and pray for individuals. If you have questions please contact Terry, tdavis@wc.org
https://www.wc.org/event/anti-trafficking-intervention-night/2023-09-08/ 

▫️That '70s Show actor Danny Masterson jailed for raping two women
A US judge has sentenced That ’70s Show star Danny Masterson to 30 years to life in prison for the rapes of two women two decades ago. Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine F Olmedo handed down the sentence to 47-year-old Masterson after hearing statements from the women about the trauma they experienced. "This has been a long and arduous road for the victims of Mr. Masterson," Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement to CBS News after the sentencing. "They not only survived his abuse, they also survived a system that is often not kind to victims." Masterson, a member of the Church of Scientology, was a star on the hit sitcom "That '70s Show," which ran from 1998 to 2006.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/news/danny-masterson-sentencing-hearing-that-70s-show/         (VIDEO)
» https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-08/that-70s-show-actor-danny-masterson-jailed/102830186
» https://www.npr.org/2023/09/07/1198160934/actor-danny-masterson-sentenced-to-30-years-to-life-in-prison-for-rape
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12495397/Who-Danny-Mastersons-wife-Bijou-Phillips-kids.html 

▫️Comer, Marjorie Taylor Greene press for info on DOJ list of Hunter Biden hookers
WASHINGTON — House Republicans on Friday ratcheted up pressure on the Justice Department to share information on an alleged list of first son Hunter Biden’s prostitutes — saying they could be victims in need of federal support. House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer and firebrand panelist Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote to the Justice Department that information should be handed over by Sept. 22 — ahead of a possible impeachment inquiry into President Biden for his alleged role in Hunter’s foreign business dealings.
https://nypost.com/2023/09/08/comer-marjorie-taylor-greene-press-for-info-on-doj-list-of-hunter-biden-hookers/ 

▫️Grooming tactics and social media: How human traffickers target vulnerable young people
Records from Homeland Security Investigation’s Dallas office show that last year in North Texas, 131 human trafficking arrests were made, with 82 victims recovered. “So it’ll start off very innocent. You know, ‘you’re beautiful, and I love this picture of you, man. You should come and model for me.’ Right. And they kind of use that very innocent approach to get the victim engaged. And once the victim’s engaging, then they’ll start to ramp up their grooming and their manipulation." According to Agent Perez, signs of trafficking in victims can be withdrawal from normal activities, possession of unexplained money, or luxury items, or dressing more sensually or sexually.
https://www.kltv.com/2023/09/08/grooming-tactics-social-media-how-human-traffickers-target-vulnerable-young-people/        (VIDEO) 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

Kearney police hunt for fugitive linked to child abuse case
KEARNEY, Neb. — On Friday September 8th a little bit after 8am the Kearney Police Department received a phone call about a vehicle going to a local hospital with a 1 year old child that was experiencing trouble breathing. The child was then immediately flown to the children’s hospital in Omaha by helicopter. A warrant was issued for 24 year Jacob Ellingson for felony child abuse. According to court documents. Ellingson is also charged with intentional child abuse of a 5 year old on or about the 7th of September which is a class 3 felony. The 1 year old is at a hospital in Omaha where she is being treated... If you have any information, contact the Kearney police department.
https://nebraska.tv/news/local/ongoing-child-abuse-investigation-of-a-one-year-old-leading-to-a-search-for-a-24-year-old-kearney-man      (VIDEO) 

“Real Genius” Star Actor Gabriel Jarret Caught in Underage Predator Sting Operation In Santa Monica and Flees After Brandishing Weapon
Gabriel Jarret, who co-starred with Val Kilmer in “Real Genius”, was caught last night in an underage sting operation by CC UNIT, a child activist organization that catches online predators preying on minors, brandished a weapon and fled the scene before he could be detained by Santa Monica Police Department. Jarret first contacted the decoy online and believed he was engaging with a 13-year old female. He continued communicating with the decoy for over a year until last night when the “meeting” took place at the Santa Monica Pier who Jarrett believed he was meeting for oral sex.
» https://www.foxla.com/news/gabriel-jarret-child-predator-allegation
» https://thecurrentreport.com/real-genius-star-actor-gabriel-jarret-caught-in-underage-sting-operation-in-santa-monica-and-flees-after-brandishing-weapon/ 

Second arrest made in Cumberland County human trafficking operation
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. – A second person has been arrested as part of a human trafficking operation in Cumberland County involving multiple massage parlors. The Cumberland County District Attorney’s office says Zigui “Lisa” Zheng was arrested and charged with operating a corrupt organization, trafficking individuals, promoting prostitution, and dealing in unlawful proceeds, among other charges. Ten massage parlors in three counties were targeted in the operation as law enforcement worked to “identify purportedly legitimate ‘Asian’ massage therapy businesses.
https://www.abc27.com/local-news/second-arrest-made-in-cumberland-county-human-trafficking-operation/ 

2 men wanted for child sexual assault arrested at Texas-Mexico border
LAREDO  — A 20-year-old man wanted for child sexual assault in Dallas was arrested at the Texas-Mexico border last week. On Sept. 4, Jesus Antonio Guzman was taken into custody at the Del Rio International Bridge. Two days after Guzman was arrested, a 26-year-old man wanted for sexually assaulting a child in Red Oak was apprehended. Officers took Evaristo Damian De la Rosa Silva into custody on Sept. 6 at the Laredo Port of Entry. 
https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/border-sex-offenders-texas-mexico-border/ 

Pearl Police Charge Man For Sex Crimes Against Child Under 14-Years-Old
Pearl Police Investigators announced that a man was charged with sex crimes against a minor. He was identified as 21-year-old Nicholas P. Webb, from Pearl. Webb was charged with two counts of Sexual Battery on a juvenile under 14-years-old and one count of Statutory Rape of a juvenile under 14-years-old. 53-year-old Steven Wesley Webb and 54-year-old Stephanie Aultman Webb, both from Pearl, were also charged with one count each of Felonious Child Abuse. Their charges stem from having alleged knowledge of the crimes and not notifying authorities.
»

Saginaw County man arrested after school official tells police about possible assault
SAGINAW COUNTY, Mich.  - A mandatory reporter tells police about a possible sexual assault of a child, which leads to the arrest of a Saginaw County man. Juan Batista was arraigned today in Saginaw County, facing at least thirteen criminal charges, including six counts of first degree criminal sexual conduct with a person under the age of 13.
https://www.abc12.com/news/saginaw-county-man-arrested-after-school-official-tells-police-about-possible-assault/article_9524a54c-50e6-11ee-9d7c-e77c4c4b4370.html 

Fayetteville man and woman arrested in child sex abuse case
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ark.  — A Fayetteville man and woman were arrested on charges related to sexual abuse involving a child last week. Michael Henson, 51, was arrested on Sept. 8 at 940 N Oakland Avenue in Fayetteville. A preliminary report from the Washington County Prosecutor’s Office says that on Sept. 8, a 13-year-old male victim disclosed that Michael had been sexually abusing him since he was 10 years old.
https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/fayetteville-man-and-woman-arrested-in-child-sex-abuse-case/ 

??Newton Police Department makes arrest in human trafficking case
NEWTON, Miss.  - The Newton Police Department has made an arrest in a recent human sex trafficking case. The department initially received a call for an alleged kidnapping last month on August 8, but later determined the incident was related to a human sex trafficking case that had crossed state lines. The name of the person arrested has not been released at this time. The investigation is still active.
https://www.wtok.com/2023/09/11/newton-police-department-arrest-human-trafficking-suspect/  

??Border Patrol Agents discover 10 migrants inside a stash house at Laredo Sector
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/agents-discover-10-migrants-inside-stash-house-laredo-sector 

??Former Indiana councilman wanted for rape could be in Gatlinburg area
INDIANAPOLIS — The United States Marshals Service and Indiana State Police are still searching for a former Madison County councilman accused of sex crimes involving a minor. Steve Sumner, 55, who also goes by Craig, has a warrant for his arrest. Sumner is charged with failure to appear, child molest, rape, sexual misconduct with a minor, sexual battery and child sexual abuse.
» https://www.wate.com/news/crime/ex-indiana-councilman-steven-sumner-child-rape-may-be-in-gatlinburg-area/
» https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/former-indiana-councilman-wanted-for-sex-crimes-still-on-the-run-could-be-in-gatlinburg-area/ 

??New charges accuse Santa Fe man of 70 counts of child and animal abuse
A Santa Fe man initially charged with five counts of abusing a young girl now faces dozens of charges accusing him of severe physical abuse of two children and their pets. Irving Ocana-Escalante, 24,  is now accused of 63 counts of abusing the girl and her brother after moving into their mother’s home in May, according to court documents. He also faces six counts of abusing animals in the home and one count of child sexual exploitation.
https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/new-charges-accuse-santa-fe-man-of-70-counts-of-child-and-animal-abuse/article_ecfdf6ca-50f9-11ee-8c4a-33a2b959a210.html 

??Former Richmond Catholic school teacher charged with taking indecent liberties with a child, aggravated sexual battery in Henrico
HENRICO COUNTY, Va.  — A former third-grade teacher at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School has been charged with numerous counts of child sex crimes. According to a release from the Catholic Diocese of Richmond, Daro Ing was indicted on multiple counts of taking indecent liberties with a child and aggravated sexual battery on Monday, Sept. 11.
https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/former-catholic-school-teacher-charged-with-taking-indecent-liberties-with-a-child-aggravated-sexual-battery-in-henrico/ 

??More than a third of calls to Louisiana’s child abuse hotline fail to connect
More than a third of callers to Louisiana’s hotline to report child abuse, even professionals who are required to report indications of abuse, either reached a busy line or hung up before someone could answer. For the calls that were answered, an average of nearly seven minutes passed before someone picked up the phone.   
https://lailluminator.com/2023/09/11/louisiana-child-abuse/ 

??Ex-CIA software engineer Joshua Schulte who was convicted of biggest leak of classified information now faces trial on child porn charges where he allegedly had more than 10K images and videos
A former CIA software engineer who was convicted of leaking classified information to WikiLeaks in 2017 now faces a trial in New York City for allegedly possessing over 10,000 images and videos child pornography. Joshua Schulte, 34, was found guilty in federal court in July 2022 on eight espionage charges and one obstruction charge over the so-called Vault 7 leak. He had the charges upheld by an appeals court just two weeks ago. Now he stands trial over accusations that he possessed and transported thousands of images showing rape and sexual abuse of children. Schulte has previously contended, without evidence, the FBI framed him because of his work at the CIA. He won’t be permitted to make that argument at trial, according to the New York Daily News. The U.S. Department of Justice said he was motivated to leak the materials out of spite because he was unhappy with how management treated him.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12507211/CIA-Joshua-Schulte-classified-leak-child-porn-charges.html 

??Senate candidates angered by alleged sex offender's return to Washington Township
An alleged child rapist with political ties has become an issue in the hotly-contested 4th district State Senate race, where both candidates are expressing outrage that he has returned to his Washington Township home as he awaits a court appearance next month. Republican Christopher Del Borrello and Democrat Paul Moriarty, both Washington Township residents, said they were disgusted by the release of Kevin Tomafsky, a former aide to Gov. Chris Christie, under a bail reform law shepherded by Christie in 2016.
https://newjerseyglobe.com/legislature/senate-candidates-angered-by-alleged-sex-offenders-return-to-washington-township/ 

??Lawsuit: Port Byron schools, BOCES failed to prevent sex abuse
A lawsuit filed earlier this year claims the Port Byron Central School District failed to stop a special needs child from being sexually abused by the same student twice within an eight-year span.
https://auburnpub.com/news/local/crime-courts/lawsuit-port-byron-schools-boces-failed-to-prevent-sex-abuse/article_061783f2-41cc-11ee-a126-5b02778ccbda.html 

??Tacoma man sentenced to 28 years in prison for production and possession of images of child rape and abuse
Tacoma – A 40-year-old Tacoma resident was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to twenty-eight years in prison and a lifetime of supervision for producing and possessing images of child sexual abuse, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. A 2018 investigation revealed that Lamar Allen Thompson, who was on state supervision as a sex offender for a 2016 conviction for molesting two minor children, filmed his molestation of two different minor children.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/tacoma-man-sentenced-28-years-prison-production-and-possession-images-child-rape-and 

??‘Put the Brakes on Human Trafficking’: MoDOT raising awareness regarding human trafficking     (VIDEO)
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is raising awareness to combat human trafficking in the country with various initiatives, including new collaboration among transportation sector leaders and recognition of innovation at the state and local levels.
https://www.ky3.com/2023/09/12/put-brakes-human-trafficking-modot-raising-awareness-regarding-human-trafficking/ 

??Human trafficking investigation tied to Browns watch party: I-Team
CLEVELAND  – The FOX 8 I-Team has uncovered a bust for human trafficking in Cleveland with sex for sale, and we found it tied to a watch party for the Browns game. So far, one man is facing charges, but this has turned into a growing investigation. A group fighting human trafficking believes this shows the crime is more common in Northeast Ohio than you might think.
https://fox8.com/news/i-team/human-trafficking-investigation-tied-to-browns-watch-party-i-team/ 

??Fight Against Human Trafficking – Zoom Town Hall Event San Diego
Zoom Town Hall event in collaboration with District Attorney Summer Stephan on human trafficking awareness and prevention. This event will take place on Monday, September 25th, at 6:00 p.m., and it is an opportunity for our community to come together and shed light on the subtle signs that often go unnoticed.
https://northcountydailystar.com/fight-against-human-trafficking-zoom-town-hall-event/ 

??House Judiciary to Investigate Child Exploitation and Trafficking
https://townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2023/09/12/house-to-investigate-child-exploitation-and-trafficking-n2628292

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Tulare County Sheriff's Office Human trafficking investigation leads to 9 arrests, 6 victims rescued
VISALIA, Calif.  — The Tulare County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) said over the weekend, nine suspects were arrested for allegedly soliciting prostitution, through a human trafficking unit investigation. A multi-agency operation led to the arrest of nine men and the rescue of several human trafficking victims.
» https://abc30.com/human-trafficking-men-arrested-women-rescued-visalia-area/13775483/   (VIDEO)
» https://bakersfieldnow.com/newsletter-daily/human-trafficking-investigation-leads-to-9-arrests-6-victims-rescued-tulare-county-sheriffs-office-crime-kern-bakersfield-california 
» https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/crime/9-arrested-6-rescued-during-human-trafficking-detail-in-visalia-deputies-say/
»

▫️California college's 'coach of the year' charged with pimping women into prostitution
A track coach at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, California faces charges including human trafficking, pandering and pimping, prosecutors announced Tuesday. Kyle Lee Whitmore is accused of trafficking two women, Jane Doe #1 and Jane Doe #2, for prostitution. He is also being charged with one count of pimping. At Diablo Valley College, Whitmore is an instructor of communication studies, as well as a track & field coach, according to prosecutors and the college’s website. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office investigation division at (925) 313-2600.
» https://www.the-sun.com/news/9079488/ex-coach-kyle-whitmore-eerie-comment-human-trafficking-arrest/
» https://www.sfgate.com/news/bayarea/article/diablo-valley-college-faculty-member-charged-with-18362435.php
» https://www.foxnews.com/us/california-colleges-coach-year-charged-pimping-women 

▫️Former Century High School diving coach now facing charges of possessing child sexual abuse material
ROCHESTER — A 50-year-old Stewartville man is accused of possessing hundreds of child sexual abuse images, according to charges filed last week in Olmsted County District Court. Brett James Maronde is facing three felony counts of possessing pornographic work of a minor under 14 years old.
https://www.aol.com/former-century-high-school-diving-000600409.html 

▫️Teacher Accused of Sex Crimes Against Teen Student In Parks, School Bus
SUFFOLK COUNTY, N.Y.  – Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced the indictment of William Sperl, 60, of Deer Park, an audio production teacher for Eastern Suffolk B.O.C.E.S, who is accused of repeatedly engaging in sexual intercourse with his 15-year-old female student in 2019.
https://breaking911.com/teacher-accused-of-sex-with-teen-student-in-parks-school-bus/ 

▫️Police identify more victims in Franklin coach sexual abuse case
FRANKLIN, Tenn. — Police have identified more victims in the case involving a Middle Tennessee soccer coach accused of drugging and raping young boys. Franklin police arrested Camilo Hurtado Campos in July, accusing him of raping boys while filming the acts. Lieutenant Charles Warner confirmed they have now identified 14 victims, and detectives believe there are even more. Franklin Police want to hear from you at (615) 794-2513 or email: http://andrea.clark@franklintn.gov/.
https://fox17.com/news/local/police-more-victims-identified-in-franklin-soccer-coach-rape-case 

▫️New Human Trafficking Indictment in Clayton County Involving Alleged Member of Outcast Motorcycle Gang
Attorney General Chris Carr today announced that Gerome McGriff, Jr. (aka Lil Savage), 43, of Morrow, has been indicted in Clayton County on charges of Trafficking of Persons for Sexual Servitude, Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, False Imprisonment, Aggravated Assault, Armed Robbery, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony. McGriff is an alleged member of the Atlanta Chapter of the Outcast Motorcycle Gang. He is believed to have recruited at least three women for the purpose of sexual servitude.
» https://allongeorgia.com/georgia-public-safety/new-human-trafficking-indictment-in-clayton-county-involving-alleged-member-of-outcast-motorcycle-gang/
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/atlanta/alleged-clayton-co-gang-member-indicted-multiple-charges-including-human-trafficking/I2G2YFA5IRCURPTCEUFENS5MYU/ 

▫️3 arrested in San Marcos for kidnapping immigrants and holding them for ransom
SAN MARCOS, Texas – San Marcos police arrested three men for allegedly kidnapping immigrants and holding them at a house until they paid several thousand dollars. SMPD said Mason Castillo, 20; Robert Cruz, 19; and Jeremiah Villarreal, 19, are each charged with smuggling of persons, engaging in organized criminal activity, aggravated robbery, and aggravated kidnapping for ransom/reward. In August, a group of at least 10 immigrants said they were kidnapped as they were smuggled from Mexico to Austin, police said.
» https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2023/09/12/3-arrested-in-san-marcos-for-kidnapping-immigrants-and-holding-them-for-ransom-police-say/
» https://headtopics.com/us/3-arrested-in-san-marcos-for-kidnapping-immigrants-and-holding-them-for-ransom-police-say-44197847 

▫️Police: Labor trafficker exploits migrant seeking child support from Venezuelan MLB player
MIAMI – A woman told a detective that she grew frustrated when she and her two daughters were struggling with food shortages in Venezuela while the girl’s father was playing baseball professionally in the United States, records show. Jeneffer Natally Gaskin Azuaje, who falsely identified as an attorney, was really a Venezuelan American labor trafficker in Florida, according to Beinvenu, also a member of the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office human trafficking task force. Miami-Dade correctional officers booked Gaskin Azuaje shortly before 6 p.m., at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, county inmate records show. She was being held without bond on Tuesday. Gaskin Azuaje is facing charges of labor trafficking, a first-degree felony; scheme to defraud, a third-degree felony; and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, a third-degree felony. Herrera could not be reached for comment. Detectives were asking anyone with information about this or other cases involving Gaskin Azuaje to call Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
https://www.local10.com/news/local/2023/09/12/police-labor-trafficker-exploited-woman-seeking-child-support-from-venezuelan-mlb-player/ 

▫️Child Sex Crimes Case: Bexar County Sheriff Office Arrests 18-Year-Old
An 18-year-old wanted for child sex crimes against a 14-year-old was caught by the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office. On Tuesday, Izaac Hernandez was caught for two serious crimes. The person was charged with promoting child pornography and committing severe sexual abuse on a minor. Investigators found evidence that some crimes occurred when the victim was 13 and the attacker was 18.
https://big14news.com/child-sex-crimes-case-bexar-county-sheriff-office-arrests-18-year-old/ 

▫️Have you seen him? $5K reward for man accused of sexually abusing child for years
HOUSTON – Crime Stoppers and the Houston Police Department are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a fugitive who is wanted for sexually abusing a child for years. On Monday, March 21, 2022, officers said they received a report of sexual abuse that occurred in the 4500 block of Sherwood Lane. Police said during the investigation, a child said that the fugitive, identified by police as Archie Lee, sexually abused them from February 2008 to February 2010. Lee is described by police as a 37-year-old man who is approximately 5'10"-5'11", 200 lbs., with brown eyes and black hair. He has been charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child. Anyone with information leading up to the charging and/or arrest of the suspect may contact Crime Stoppers by calling (713) 222-TIPS (8477), submitting an online tip at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app for a cash payment of up to $5,000.
» https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2023/09/12/have-you-seen-him-5k-reward-for-man-accused-of-sexually-abusing-child-for-years/ 
»

▫️Massage parlor workers arrested for prostitution promotion
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas - Montgomery County officials arrested three involved in crimes related to prostitution at a massage parlor. According to law enforcement, business owners Shih Sheng Lin, 57, and Tuxiang Zhu, 45, as well as property manager, Xiaoyan Yan Shi, 40, were arrested and charged with aggravated promotion of prostitution at two massage parlors located in the 2000 block of Rayford Road and the 25500 block of Interstate 45 South in Spring. Furthermore, the investigation revealed there were foreign national females on the premises who were being held for the purpose of engaging in sex crimes commonly associated with human trafficking. Anyone with information related to this ongoing investigation or pertaining to these suspects is urged to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office at 936-760-5800, option 3, or the Multi-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-392-STOP [7867], referencing case #22A202588.
https://www.fox26houston.com/news/montgomery-county-massage-parlor-workers-arrested-for-prostitution-promotion 

▫️Sexual assault of a child under 12 among slew of charges against Racine man
RACINE — An inadvertent discovery of disturbing sexual assault videos on a cell phone eventually led to the arrest of a 24-year-old Racine man, who now faces more than 600 years in prison. Robert R. Reams is charged with 15 felony counts, including 10 for sexual assault of a child and five for possession of child sex abuse material (CSAM or child pornography), which carries a possible maximum prison term of 625 years and $1 million fine.
https://racinecountyeye.com/2023/09/12/sexual-assault-charges-against-man/ 

▫️HSI Flagstaff, multiagency task force arrest Arizona man for sex crimes against children
HOLBROOK, Ariz. — In early September, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Flagstaff and a multiagency task force arrested a northern Arizona man for sexual exploitation of a minor. On Aug. 22, a Navajo County grand jury issued 11 indictments on sex-related charges. Joshuah Cruz Eberhart, 24, of Clay Springs, is currently being held on a $50,000 cash-only bond for the first charge and a $2,500 secured bond for the other 10 counts.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-flagstaff-multiagency-task-force-arrest-arizona-man-sex-crimes-against-children 

▫️News from the California Capitol: Human Trafficking Bill

▫️Sexual assault of teen girl results in 40-year prison sentence for Rogers man
BENTONVILLE - A Rogers man was sentenced to 40 years in prison after admitting to sexually assaulting a teenage girl. Hector Figueroa-Vasquez, 38, pleaded guilty Monday to three counts of sexual assault. Police later received a report from the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline the teen and another girl had been brought into the country illegally and were being sold for sex, the affidavit states.
» https://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2023/sep/13/sexual-assault-of-teen-girl-results-in-40-year/
» https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/rogers-man-accused-of-raping-kidnapping-child-gets-40-years/ 

▫️Scandal engulfing Mobile Catholic high school expands; SNAP urges the faithful to demand accountability
McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in Alabama recently made international news because of reports that the Archdiocese, as well as the staff at the school, ignored complaints about a Catholic priest who absconded to Italy with a recent McGill graduate. Sadly, Fr. Alex Crow was apparently not the only case to be mishandled by school officials and the Church. On Sunday, Mobile media outlet Lagniappe posted a major exposé on child sex abuse at the Catholic high school entitled, “Victims say leaders ignored past and present abuse at McGill.” The outstanding piece was written by Rob Hobert, with contributions from Dale Liesch and Kyle Hamrick.
https://www.snapnetwork.org/scandal_engulfing_mobile_catholic_high_school_expands_snap_urges_the_faithful_to_demand_accountability
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/scandal-engulfing-mobile-catholic-high-school-expands-snap-urges-the-faithful-to-demand-accountability/ 

▫️New task force created to track missing kids in Houston
HOUSTON — For years, the parents of missing children company that the term "runaway" has held back law enforcement efforts to find their kids. But now, with a better understanding of child trafficking, some of that appears to be changing. Last month, KHOU 11 News followed a new Harris County task force designated to locate reported runaway kids.
https://www.khou.com/article/news/local/harris-county-runaway-task-force/285-5a44767e-fb43-4291-a95d-17116ca05521 

▫️Tallahassee non-profit holding mural contest for human trafficking prevention

▫️LA city attorney targets sex trafficking along Figueroa corridor
Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto announced Tuesday her office has filed a lawsuit against the owners and operator of the New Gage Motel in South L.A. in an effort to address prostitution and crimes that occur at the property. Feldstein Soto is seeking a permanent injunction to “eradicate” alleged prostitution and violent criminality that has occurred at this property since 2017, according to a statement from her office. The 16-unit motel, located at 6310 S. Figueroa Street, is situated along one of the state’s most “notorious” prostitution tracks — Figueroa corridor.
» https://mynewsla.com/crime/2023/09/12/la-city-attorney-targets-sex-trafficking-along-notorious-figueroa-corridor/
» https://heysocal.com/2023/09/12/la-city-attorney-targets-sex-trafficking-along-figueroa-corridor/ 

▫️Benefit concert to raise funds for i-Care, human trafficking shelter for victims in Augusta
AUGUSTA, Ga.  – A non-profit that helps victims of sex trafficking in the CSRA needs YOUR help to continue their efforts. i-Care provides an array of resources and a safe house for these victims. Proceeds from their annual “Praise Beneath the Stars” benefit helps keep their doors open. This year’s event features Grammy-nominated Christian artist, Rhett Walker. And although it’ll be night of food and music, it’s also a night of hope for local traffic survivors.
https://www.wjbf.com/csra-news/benefit-concert-to-raise-funds-for-i-care-human-trafficking-shelter-for-victims-in-augusta/       (VIDEO) 

▫️International organization Remember Nhu coming to Warren, Ohio to bring awareness to trafficking
WARREN, Ohio – Later this month, for the second time, a Warren church will host a fundraiser to help an international organization working to end child sex slavery. On Saturday, September 23, North Mar Church is hosting a run, walk and bike event for the group called “Remember Nhu.” The event starts at 8 a.m. at the Kent State Trumbull campus.
https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/warren-news/international-organization-coming-to-warren-to-bring-awareness-to-trafficking/ 

▫️Crack the Code: Parents learn tips to protect kids online     (VIDEO)
MOBILE, Ala.  - As cell phone access continues to fall into younger hands -- online predator access to your children is 10 times higher than it was 20 years ago. “Our kids are now acting in a cyber world -- so knowing who they are talking to, knowing what applications they have, shutting those down -- limiting their access. We have to be those parents that we know what they are involved in to try our best to mitigate some of these other issues that are out there,” said Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber.
https://www.fox10tv.com/2023/09/13/crack-code-parents-learn-tips-protect-kids-online/ 

▫️‘Feeling Sorry Changes Nothing’ – Student Group Works To End Human Trafficking
ALBANY, N.Y. - UAlbany Students Stopping Trafficking of People (SSTOP) is an organization committed to raising awareness and sharing tools to end human trafficking and aid survivors of the crime. The group, founded in 2017, is holding its first general interest meeting at 7:30 p.m. today in room 108 of the Humanities Building. President Gillian Dirr and the group’s E-Board will share information on human trafficking. The Quest to End Human Trafficking: An Educational and Practical Guide for Everyone Who Wants to Help Break the Bonds and Assist Survivors, offers some concrete ideas. The book is available as a free download through the UAlbany Scholars Archive https://scholarsarchive.library.albany.edu/ehc_fac_scholar/8/ 
https://www.albany.edu/news-center/news/2023-feeling-sorry-changes-nothing-student-group-works-end-human-trafficking 

▫️Anthropologists work at the Carlisle Indian School Cemetery to return 5 more children remains
Pennsylvania - Starting on Monday, a team of archeologists and a forensic anthropologist will be working at five graves at the Carlisle Indian School Cemetery. They'll work to recover and examine the remains below so that they can be reburied in tribal lands. The nearly 200 children who were buried in this cemetery were students at the Carlisle Indian School, which was the first federally funded off-reservation Native American boarding school in the country.
https://www.kake.com/story/49629498/anthropologists-work-at-the-carlisle-indian-school-cemetery-to-return-5-more-children-remains 
 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Arizona deputy saves child from alleged trafficker
WINSLOW, Ariz. - Authorities say a California man who was trafficking a child through Navajo County has been arrested for human smuggling. The Navajo County Sheriff's Office says a deputy pulled over a vehicle on Interstate 40 in Winslow on Sept. 8 and determined that a young boy who was in the car was being trafficked. The driver of the car, 35-year-old Julio Ramirez-Felipe, a resident of Greenfield, California, was arrested. Ramirez-Felipe was booked into jail and is accused of assisting in a human smuggling organization.
https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizona-deputy-saves-child-from-alleged-trafficker 

▫️New York sex trafficking victim found in Hutchinson, suspect arrested
WICHITA, Kan. - The Reno County Sheriff’s Office said a juvenile victim of sex trafficking, a runaway from New York, was found in Hutchinson. Once the runaway was taken from the home by deputies, she told the authorities she had been sexually assaulted by 20-year-old David Gingerich of Ohio, who has since been arrested for aggravated sex trafficking, rape and aggravated criminal sodomy. 
https://salinapost.com/posts/d9dd01ed-1144-48c2-97f1-06ba3eb5cf05
» https://www.kwch.com/2023/09/13/new-york-sex-trafficking-victim-found-hutchinson-suspect-arrested/ 

▫️2 arrested in online sting targeting child sex predators
TUCUMCARI, NEW MEXICO — Two people were arrested in Quay County, New Mexico during an operation targeting "child sexual abuse predators." The Quay County Sheriff’s Office said the online sting was conducted in Tucumcari from September 6-9. According to the arrest log, they arrested: Arif Tanai, 26, Clarkston, Georgia; Loy Nelson Lawrence Jr., 54, Thornton, Colorado. Tanai and Lawrence are charged with child solicitation by electronic communication device (child age 13 to 16).
» https://www.newschannel10.com/2023/09/13/2-arrested-operation-targeting-child-predators-tucumcari/
» https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/2-arrested-in-online-sting-targeting-child-sex-predators-tucumcari-quay-county-quay-county-sheriffs-office-arif-tanai-clarkston-georgia-loy-nelson-lawrence-jr-thornton-colorado  

▫️Multiple Arrests Made in Irving on Charges Including Prostitution and Child Abuse
Four men were taken into custody for soliciting prostitution. The Irving Police Department also apprehended 31-year-old Ashley Wiggens also faces charges of trafficking children. Another arrest made on September 12, 2023, was that of 38-year-old Darryll Freemond Vance, who was booked at 1:46 PM. Vance has been charged with sexual abuse of a child.
https://www.irvingweekly.com/s/6072/Multiple-Arrests-Made-in-Irving-on-Charges-Including-Prostitution-and-Child-Abuse.php  

▫️ISP: Former Indiana councilman charged with child sex crimes may be in Gatlinburg
Authorities said they have reason to believe Steven Sumner may be in the Gatlinburg area after he fled Indiana. He is charged with several child sex crimes.

▫️Prosecutors allege ‘pervasive’ child sexual abuse in ex-Kansas City, Kansas, cult
United Nation of Islam accused of sexual abuse of children. Numerous girls were sexually abused by members of a quasi-religious group once headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, whose alleged leaders stand accused of child labor trafficking, prosecutors say. Federal prosecutors alleged “systemic and pervasive sexual and physical abuse” of children within the group previously known as the United Nation of Islam, which a federal judge in Kansas labeled a cult. Of the more than 15 examples of sexual abuse detailed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Kansas, one is attributed to one of the defendants in the child labor case: Daniel Aubrey Jenkins, who allegedly “engaged in sexual relationships” with underage girls, including one of the Justice Department’s witnesses. Prosecutors said Jenkins and the girl were “married” — arrangements that were allegedly forced by the cult’s leader and were not legal — when she was 15. She gave birth to a child at 16, prosecutors wrote.
https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article279305129.html 

▫️Vine Grove resident accused of sexually abusing two children
Vine Grove police arrested a 63-year-old man based on a month-long investigation of allegations of child sexual abuse. John Earl Clarkson was arrested Monday on charges of first-degree sexual abuse — victim under 12 years of age and first-degree sodomy — victim under 12 years of age.
https://www.thenewsenterprise.com/news/crime_and_courts/vine-grove-resident-accused-of-sexually-abusing-two-children/article_11984de3-fefb-54a8-a8d8-1ec018d45f3a.html 

▫️Man is accused of holding girlfriend captive in university dorm for days
ST. PAUL, Minn.  — A 19-year-old man is accused of holding his girlfriend captive in her dorm room at a university in Minnesota while he raped, beat and waterboarded her for days until she escaped. Keanu Labatte was arrested Sunday at St. Catherine University, an all-female school in St. Paul. He is charged with five felony counts: three for criminal sexual conduct, one for domestic assault by strangulation and one for threats of violence. Police found Labatte in the dorm room, the complaint says, and arrested him on probable cause of domestic assault and sexual assault.
https://www.wtok.com/2023/09/13/man-is-accused-holding-girlfriend-captive-university-dorm-days/ 

▫️Fairbury’s crackdown on suspected child predators leads to Bloomington man’s arrest
FAIRBURY  - Colton Houck, 22, is one of five people arrested since August 31 by Fairbury and El Paso Police Department’s task force called CHAOS. which stands for Crimes Against Our Students. Houck is charged in Livingston County Court with indecent solicitation and traveling to meet a child, Both are Class 3 felonies.
https://www.25newsnow.com/2023/09/14/fairburys-crackdown-suspected-child-predators-leads-bloomington-mans-arrest/ 

▫️Several school officials face child porn charges over last year
FARGO, N.D.  - Since May of 2022, there have been five current or former school officials who have been charged for sexual relations with students or possession of child pornography in Fargo, West Fargo and Moorhead.
https://www.valleynewslive.com/2023/09/13/several-school-officials-face-child-porn-charges-over-last-year/ 

▫️14 victims, more suspected in soccer coach rape case
Franklin police said Tuesday they have identified more victims in the case of a Franklin soccer coach they say drugged and raped the young boys he recruited to play for him. Lieutenant Charles Warner confirmed there are now 14 victims in the case, and based on evidence, detectives believe there are more.
https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/crime/2023/09/13/franklin-police-victims-more-suspected-soccer-coach-camilo-campos-case/70836823007/ 

▫️Maryland man accused of sexual assaulting children at unlicensed Annapolis day care
Maryland police recently added more charges against a man who is accused of sexually assaulting children at an illegally-run day care. Roberto Medina, 57, was charged with a slew of sex crimes including first-degree rape, second-degree rape and third-degree sex offense. The suspect was also booked for fourth-degree sex offense and second-degree assault.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/maryland-man-accused-sexual-assaulting-children-unlicensed-annapolis-day-care-police 

▫️Bank volunteers help fight human trafficking
Oregon - On their Volunteer Day, some First Interstate Bank volunteers helped In Our Backyard fight human trafficking by placing 'freedom stickers' with a hotline number in public restrooms.
» https://ktvz.com/videos/local-videos/2023/09/13/bank-volunteers-help-fight-human-trafficking/
»

▫️Woman accused of recruiting child to sex work
PIERRE, S.D.  — 41-year-old Sheyenne Rose Rodriguez is behind bars accused of sex trafficking a child. Court documents say, during March of 2021, Rodriguez recruited a child to work as a prostitute.
» https://www.keloland.com/news/local-news/woman-accused-of-recruiting-child-to-sex-work/ 
»

▫️Lexington man arrested in connection with child sexual abuse material
COLUMBIA, S.C. - Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) which led to Christopher James Price, 32, of Lexington, S.C. Price was arrested on Sept. 5, 2023, and is charged with four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.
https://www.wistv.com/2023/09/12/lexington-man-arrested-connection-with-child-sexual-abuse-material/ 

▫️Convicted sex offender reaches plea deal
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A convicted sex offender plans to plead guilty to trying to entice a girl on the internet. 34-year-old Joshua Catron signed federal documents admitting to messaging someone he believed to be a 15-year-old girl for sex. It turned out to be an undercover investigator. Catron was convicted of raping a 15-year-old girl in Minnehaha County in 2016. The Department of Corrections website says he is still on parole.
» https://www.keloland.com/news/local-news/convicted-sex-offender-arrested-by-internet-investigator/
»

▫️Pennsylvania State Constable arrested, charged with 58 counts of human trafficking
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Pa. — A Pennsylvania State Constable is facing 25 criminal offenses as a result of a two-year-long investigation, according to the Chambersburg Police Department. Timothy Raye Heefner, 64, was arrested on Sept. 13 following a joint investigation conducted by the Chambersburg Police Department and the Franklin County District Attorney's Office. He also received criminal charges for 58 counts of sexual extortion (F3) and 41 counts of criminal attempt to commit sexual extortion (F3). This is an ongoing investigation and the Chambersburg Police Department is requesting the assistance of anyone who has been victimized by Heefner to contact the Chambersburg Police Department or submit a CRIMEWATCH tip.
https://www.abc27.com/local-news/pennsylvania-state-constable-faces-over-600-charges-relating-to-human-trafficking/       (VIDEO)
https://www.fox43.com/article/news/crime/pa-state-constable-arrested-charged-58-counts-human-trafficking/521-757640a7-afa0-443f-8fd3-60ac4fcd3245 

▫️Brooklyn Man Lured Aspiring Model into Sex Trafficking Business
BROOKLYN, NY – Allen Barrington, 38, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the sex trafficking of an 18-year-old girl. The Brooklyn District Attorney announced the sentence on Wednesday, stating that Barrington had lured the victim from Ohio to New York with promises of a modeling career.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2023/09/14/brooklyn-man-lured-aspiring-model-into-sex-trafficking-business/ 

▫️New anti-human trafficking initiative announced in West Virginia
HENT, WV — The new “YOU CAN” initiative to help stop human trafficking in the Mountain State was announced by Governor Jim Justice and the West Virginia Fusion Center.
»

▫️Senator reads aloud from pornographic kids’ books at hearing      (VIDEO)
https://rumble.com/v3heh9e-senator-reads-aloud-from-pornographic-kids-books-at-hearing.html

▫️TESTIMONY OF CEO John Pizzuro, Raven Commander, New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children (Ret)
New Jersey State Police (Ret) for the UNITED STATES CONGRESS COMMITTEE ON THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE – SUBCOMMITEE ON CRIME AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SURVEILLANCE.
Children are Not for Sale: Examining the Threat of Exploitation of Children in the U.S. and Abroad. "It is important to understand that the CyberTipline is challenging law enforcement not only with
respect to the quantity of leads, but also the quality of leads. According to data from several ICAC Task Forces only approximately 5% of Cybertips received from NCMEC result in an arrest." 
https://judiciary.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/republicans-judiciary.house.gov/files/evo-media-document/pizzuro-testimony.pdf 

▫️Human trafficking program set tonight in Clarion
State Rep. Donna Oberlander will lead a human trafficking awareness event from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight in Hart Chapel at the PennWest-Clarion campus in Clarion.
https://www.thederrick.com/news/community_news/human-trafficking-program-set-tonight-in-clarion/article_1479a710-5250-11ee-84f7-3f16ac76d0c5.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️10 charged in trafficking sting; 1 man agreed to buy sex from cop posing as teen
The Portland Police Bureau and the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office criminally charged ten men during a joint human trafficking mission in east Multnomah County on September 12th, 2023. The men, ranging from ages 25 to 51, agreed to purchase sex from undercover law enforcement officers posing as trafficked women. One man even agreed to purchase sex from an officer posing as a 15-year-old.
» https://www.portlandoregon.gov/police/news/read.cfm?id=493078
» https://www.kptv.com/2023/09/16/10-charged-trafficking-sting-1-man-agreed-buy-sex-cop-posing-teen-portland-police/
» https://www.theoutlookonline.com/news/gresham-man-arrested-during-human-trafficking-sting/article_b6867254-5502-11ee-aeae-8f6311c87441.html  

▫️Police arrest 6 wanted for torturing, killing woman lured to join ‘Soldiers of Christ’
Gwinnett County - A woman from South Korea was allegedly tortured and killed by a gang of at least six people in Georgia who lured her to join a group referred to "Soldiers of Christ."  Police on Thursday charged five adults and a teenager with murder, false imprisonment, evidence tampering and concealing the death of another. "Detectives believe the victim moved to the United States from South Korea sometime back in the summer of this year for the purpose of joining a religious organization," police said in the news release. If anyone has any information to share in this case, please contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300.  To remain anonymous, tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrimeATL.com.
» https://www.yahoo.com/news/police-arrest-6-wanted-torturing-004208572.html
» https://www.gwinnettcounty.com/web/gwinnett/newsandevents/newsdetails?news=PolicePressReleases/PERSONDEAD3555GWINNETTPLACEDR_091323  

▫️North Pownal, Vt. man charged with sexually assaulting a child
A North Pownal man is behind bars without bail, accused of sexually assaulting a child under 10 years of age. On Thursday, Sept. 14, detectives with the Vermont State Police Special Investigation Unit (SIU), along with Investigators from the Vermont Department of Children and Families (DCF) began an investigation concerning an alleged child sex assault. According to state police, a child under 10 years of age was brought to Southern Vermont Medical Center and examined, after they claimed they were sexually assaulted by Jonathan Gardner, 35, of North Pownal.
https://cbs6albany.com/amp/news/local/north-pownal-vt-man-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-a-child-jonathan-gardner 

▫️Former volunteer at South Carolina church pleads guilty to inappropriately touching children
YORK, S.C.  – A former volunteer for the children’s program at Central Baptist Church has pled guilty in York County criminal court to inappropriately touching a minor while at the church, according to The Herald newspaper of Rock Hill. Ira James Summerlin, 77, of York, pleaded guilty on Sept. 6 to third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor, according to prosecutors. Summerlin was sentenced to eight months in prison.
» https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/former-volunteer-at-south-carolina-church-pleads-guilty-to-inappropriately-touching-children/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/former-volunteer-at-south-carolina-church-pleads-guilty-to-inappropriately-touching-children/ 

▫️FUSD Police Department seeks public's help in identifying alleged child predator
The Fontana School Police Department is asking for the community’s assistance with identifying an alleged child predator. The unknown suspect is the focus of a child annoyance investigation that occurred on Sept. 15 near a school in the area of Juniper Avenue and Walnut Street in northern Fontana, according to a Facebook post by the School Police Department. Police would like residents to review a photograph of the suspect and call (909) 357-5020 if they have any information.
https://www.fontanaheraldnews.com/news/fusd-police-department-seeks-publics-help-in-identifying-alleged-child-predator/article_0ceeb3b0-54de-11ee-b49e-77b42a136442.html 

▫️Canton man convicted of sex trafficking after sharing nude photos of teen in sex ads
A Canton man was convicted Thursday on charges of sex trafficking a 15-year-old runaway by posting online sex ads, prostituting her, and pocketing the money, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Keion Rowell, 24, was arrested and charged in April 2022 and indicted by a federal grand jury in May 2022.
https://www.boston.com/news/crime/2023/09/16/canton-man-convicted-of-sex-trafficking-after-sharing-nude-photos-of-teen-in-sex-ads/ 

▫️Richmond organization seeks to scrub human trafficking out of Kentucky
RICHMOND, Ky. — A Richmond car wash was the location for a fundraiser aimed at helping victims break away from a messy past. Redeeming Hope used a car wash to shine attention on a subject not often discussed: human trafficking in Kentucky. “So now we’re raising the money to build the house for them. A lot of people don’t realize that Kentucky ranked number nine in the nation in 2019 for human trafficking,” Lisa Foster, president of Redeeming Hope, said.
https://fox56news.com/news/local/richmond-organization-seeks-to-scrub-human-trafficking-out-of-kentucky/ 

▫️Join the Fight Against Child Sex Trafficking: A Community Awareness Event
Ferguson, MO - Join the Fight Against Child Sex Trafficking: A Community Awareness Event Oct 21 - is a monthly meetup designed to educate and mobilize individuals and communities to take action against child trafficking. Hosted by childsextrafficking.org, the event will provide important information on the issue of child sex trafficking, including laws, news, and resources available to help stop this heinous crime. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experts in the field and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for protecting vulnerable children around the world.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-the-fight-against-child-sex-trafficking-a-community-awareness-event-tickets-693963231707 

▫️Human Trafficking Awareness Event, Reno - Sparks Convention Center, October 27 2023
Let's illuminate the darkness of human trafficking and bring hope to those affected. Join us for an unforgettable evening dedicated to raising awareness and igniting change Friday, October 27th.
https://allevents.in/reno/human-trafficking-awareness-event/200025393403338 

▫️Exitus CEO arrested on over 30 felonies including theft, forgery, identity fraud
PROVO, Utah — The CEO of a Utah-based non-profit dedicated to fighting human trafficking was booked into Utah County Jail Friday for over 30 felony offenses. Candace Lierd, 37, formerly known as Candace Rivera, faces charges of communications fraud, theft, and forgery among others. In total, she was with 35 different offenses, 32 of which were felonies. The arrest comes as a result of an investigation by the Utah Attorney General's Office into the non-profit, EXITUS, which began back in June. "An Attorney General’s Office investigation uncovered evidence that Candace Lierd repeatedly made false representations to donors who gave money to support the fight against human trafficking," a statement from the Office of the Attorney General reads in part.
» https://www.fox13now.com/news/local-news/exitus-ceo-booked-on-over-30-felony-counts
» https://www.abc4.com/news/crime/founder-of-anti-human-trafficking-nonprofit-faces-more-than-30-felony-charges-including-theft-fraud-forgery/ 

▫️Petition · Dep. of Child Welfare Services INVESTIGATE institutional child abuse in La Luz del mundo
Survivors of institutional child abuse born and raised in a religious cult are witnesses and victims of organized institutional physical, emotional, mental and many of us of child sexual assault. Children and young people in “La Iglesia del dios vivo columna y apoyo de la verdad La luz del mundo are in danger we make our report public to CPS that these children are not safe.  Extreme coercive control LLDM’s cultic system. This organization harbors child predators and creates a culture of domestic abuse of children and teens of California, America and the world, cultivating  a mental health crisis cycle through religious abuse.
https://www.change.org/p/dep-of-child-welfare-services-investigate-institutional-child-abuse-in-la-luz-del-mundo  

▫️States ease teen employment laws amid rising child labor violations
As labor shortages continue across several industries, a number of states are trying a controversial new strategy: making it easier to employ teenagers. Over the past two years, bills that make it easier for minors to work at paid jobs have been introduced in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, New Jersey, New Hampshire, and Arkansas. But each was written with a different focus and in a variety of contexts.
https://www.hometownregister.com/news/national/states-ease-teen-employment-laws-amid-rising-child-labor-violations/video_33280653-ab4c-525e-9787-a202dd339e1a.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Child taken away from Georgetown home in attempted abduction, police say
GEORGETOWN, Texas — The Georgetown Police Department is investigating a reported attempted child abduction that happened in the 3100 block of Northwest Boulevard, the department said in a social media post Monday afternoon. Police said a male suspect allegedly knocked on the door of a residence, and that a nine-year-old girl answered the door. Police added the suspect “reportedly grabbed the 9 year old and carried her off from the residence.”  The child is now safe and police added detectives are working the scene at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact Georgetown PD at 512-930-3510.
» https://www.kxan.com/news/local/georgetown/georgetown-pd-responding-to-attempted-child-abduction/
»

▫️Indy bail bondsman arrested for human trafficking after allegedly exchanging sex for bonds
INDIANAPOLIS — An Indianapolis bail bondsman is arrested and accused of human trafficking. Prosecutors believe the suspect repeatedly abused the justice system and took advantage of female jail inmates. 
» https://fox59.com/news/indy-bail-bondsman-arrested-for-human-trafficking-after-allegedly-exchanging-sex-for-bonds/ 
»

▫️Oshkosh police prostitution investigation results in 10 arrests
OSHKOSH – Ten men were arrested on suspicion of pandering following an undercover prostitution investigation on the city’s north side Sept. 13. The men arrested ranged in age from 27 to 53. Nine were from the Fox Valley area and one was from Beaver Dam. None of their names was released.
https://www.thenorthwestern.com/story/news/crime/2023/09/18/oshkosh-police-prostitution-investigation-results-in-10-arrests/70892929007/
» https://www.wbay.com/2023/09/18/oshkosh-police-arrest-10-men-undercover-prostitution-investigation/ 

▫️South Georgia woman arrested, accused of human trafficking, cruelty to children
After a joint investigation involving the Echols County Sheriff’s Office and the GBI’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) Unit, Genara Juan -Ramos, age 30, of Lake Park, GA, has been charged with two counts of 1st degree Cruelty to Children and one count of Human Trafficking. On February 8, 2023, the Echols County Sheriff's Office requested GBI’s HEAT Unit assist with a human trafficking case involving a minor.
https://www.wtxl.com/see-where-south-georgia-woman-arrested-accused-of-human-trafficking-cruelty-to-children 

▫️ State-affiliated victim abducted, sexually assaulted off-campus
RALEIGH, N.C.  — Raleigh and N.C. State police received calls about a sexual assault involving an N.C. State-affiliated victim that happened late Monday morning. The victim told police that they were assaulted shortly after 11 a.m. at an off-campus location near Hillsborough Street after the suspect forced the victim into a vehicle. Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Raleigh Police Department by calling 911 or 919-878-3561.
https://www.cbs17.com/news/local-news/wake-county-news/nc-state-affiliated-victim-abducted-sexually-assaulted-off-campus-police-say/ 

▫️LaPorte County man facing several charges of child molestation, rape
LAPORTE COUNTY, Ind. - A man is facing multiple felony charges after a child abuse investigation led to his arrest. Anthony Johnson Jr., 37, faces seven counts of child molestation, six counts of rape, and one count of vicarious sexual gratification. According to the Michigan City Police Department, Johnson Jr. was arrested on Monday, Sept. 11, after a child abuse investigation was conducted in August.
https://www.wndu.com/2023/09/18/laporte-county-man-charged-with-several-counts-child-molestation-rape/     (VIDEO) 

▫️Arkansas man arrested, charged with over 1,000 counts of child porn
LITTLE ROCK  — The Saline County Sheriff's Office, with the assistance of the Bryant Police Department, arrested a man Monday morning on over 1,000 counts of child porn. A Facebook post from the Sheriff's office stated that Richard Jason Wilson, of Bryant, was charged with 1,250 counts of Distributing, possessing, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child. Authorities stated in the post that Wilson, a registered sex offender, has been the subject of an ongoing investigation involving child sexual abuse material. (CSAM)
https://katv.com/news/local/arkansas-man-arrested-charged-with-over-1000-counts-of-child-porn-the-saline-county-sheriffs-office-bryant-police-department-richard-jason-wilson-distributing-possessing-viewing-of-matter-depicting-sexually-explicit-conduct-central-arkansas-ongoing-ark  

▫️Former preacher sentenced to over half a century for child sex crimes committed overseas
PENSACOLA, Fla. — A former preacher from Milton, Florida, was handed a 60-year sentence in federal prison for sex crimes he committed in the Republic of Fiji. A Monday news release announced Jason Moore, 43, pleaded guilty to two counts of illicit sexual conduct in foreign places.
https://cbs12.com/news/local/jason-moore-child-sex-crimes-republic-of-fiji-sentenced-60-years-federal-prison-victim-sexual-abuse-lifetime-supervision-sexual-predator-us-attorney-office-northern-district-of-florida-september-18-2023 

▫️Police officer accuses child grooming victim of 'making porn' in shocking doorbell footage
COLUMBUS, Ohio - According to the dad, he had grown concerned about a grown man manipulating his 11-year-old daughter to send pictures of herself. But when he called the cops they didn't respond quite the way he expected. The man said to the officer that he realized there probably isn’t much they can do about it, which is when the police officer said, “I mean, she can probably get charged with child porn.” According to a department statement, the incident is being investigated by the Department of the Inspector General, “which investigates complaints of misconduct and/or excessive use of force by sworn personnel.”
»

▫️Sacramento Catholic high school faces lawsuit over coach who sexually abused student
A lawsuit alleges that administrators at a Catholic high school in Sacramento knew or should have known that a running coach was using his role as a trusted campus authority figure to “groom” a student for child sexual abuse. The civil lawsuit was filed last week against St. Francis Catholic High School, a private all-girls school in East Sacramento. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of a former St. Francis High student, who was 15 years old in 2020 when she was sexually abused by her coach. Aaron Daniel Rios was a track and cross-country coach at St. Francis High, and he also coached for Sac Elite Youth Running Club, which he founded.
https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/sacramento-catholic-high-school-faces-lawsuit-over-coach-who-sexually-abused-student/ 

▫️NYC pimp ‘Sugar Bear’ pleads to sex trafficking, murder/dismemberment of woman
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — A Brooklyn pimp known as “Sugar Bear,” “Daddy” or “Bear” pleaded guilty last week to sex trafficking eight women and to the 2017 murder of one of them, according to court documents. Somorie Moses appeared Friday in front of United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon where he admitted to his actions, which authorities say spanned at least two decades.
» https://www.longisland.com/news/09-18-23/fbi-brooklyn-man-pleads-guilty-to-murder-and-sex-trafficking-eight-women.html
» https://www.silive.com/crime-safety/2023/09/nyc-pimp-sugar-bear-pleads-to-sex-trafficking-murderdismemberment-of-woman.html 

▫️Former Lansing area sports referee sentenced to prison for sexual assault
LANSING — A former longtime area sports referee was sent to prison on Monday after some of his victims described being groomed, manipulated, isolated and sexually assaulted by a man they once trusted. Gerald Sutter, now 71, used his power and authority to gain the trust of young boys and showered them with gifts, subjecting them to "years and years of torture," said the mother of a victim who came forward with allegations about Sutter in 2022.
https://www.lansingstatejournal.com/story/news/2023/09/18/gerald-sutter-referee-lansing-township-sexual-assault-sentence/70894649007/ 

▫️VIDEO: Hundreds of migrants atop trains arrive in Juarez
EL PASO, Texas — Hundreds of migrants arrived atop a train at the U.S.-Mexico border on Monday. Video shows dozens of migrants atop each of the covered box hoppers as the train arrives in south Juarez, across the border from El Paso, Texas.
»

▫️St. Louis Child Predator Gets 34 Years for Attempted Sex Crimes
On September 14, 2023, 46-year-old Vallie F. Zeller received a nearly 34-year long sentence in federal prison for several attempted sex crimes against a minor, following his conviction by a jury in March 2023, according the Southern District of Illinois.
https://hoodline.com/2023/09/st-louis-child-predator-gets-34-years-for-attempted-sex-crimes-against-an-illinois-minor/ 

▫️Human trafficking law expert to speak at Tharros Place event
On Sept. 20, Georgia Legal Services Program Executive Director Susan Coppedge will expand on why human trafficking is so prevalent in Georgia, and nationwide, serving as the keynote speaker at the Fall Human Trafficking Stakeholder Meeting meeting for Tharros Place, a local nonprofit that will provide stable housing to underage survivors of human trafficking.
https://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/local/2023/09/19/human-trafficking-law-expert-speak-tharros-place-event-savannah-ga/70891474007/     (VIDEO) 

▫️Fitch announces 2023 Human Trafficking Victims Fund Application Period
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch announced that starting today, Sept. 18, applications for funding from the Victims of Human Trafficking and Commercial Sexual Exploitation Fund are available through the Office of the Attorney General and service providers are welcome to begin the application process.
https://desotocountynews.com/mississippi-news/fitch-announces-2023-human-trafficking-victims-fund-application-period/

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Boozman: The Fight to End Human Trafficking, 5 human trafficking victims recently rescued
The FBI’s Arkansas Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force operates in Northwest Arkansas, where there is an increased need for anti-human trafficking resources. This investment has paid dividends during a recent Department of Homeland Security human trafficking investigation. The operation worked with the FBI, Arkansas State Police and nearly every local law enforcement agency in the area to rescue five human trafficking victims and arrest five perpetrators. Additionally, non-profits have joined the effort. Into the Light, a foundation for children recovering from human trafficking, assisted nearly 90 people at its Mountain Home location from 16 counties in our state. Initiatives such as The Centers for Youth and Families in Little Rock and Monticello, as well as Hub of HOPE in Northwest Arkansas, provide housing and resources for victims and their families to heal as well as educate the public about human trafficking.
https://www.thesuntimes.com/opinion/boozman-the-fight-to-end-human-trafficking/article_841b988b-1bf3-5608-b45f-320743a5f3b8.html 

▫️Operation North Star III Nabs More Than 4,400 Fugitives | U.S. Marshals Service
The U.S. Marshals Service arrested 4,455 violent fugitives during the latest phase of its high-impact fugitive apprehension initiative, dubbed Operation North Star III (ONS III).  ONS III targeted violent offenders in 20 cities and resulted in the clearance of 2,818 violent warrants, to include homicide, forcible sexual assault, robbery, aggravated assault and firearms violations.
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/operation-north-star-iii-nabs-more-4400-fugitives-include-over-200-new-orleans 

▫️HSI Dallas-led operation results in 134 arrests for commercial sex transactions | ICE
DALLAS — On Sept. 20, the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas-led North Texas Trafficking Task Force announced the arrests of 134 individuals for the purchase of sex, a felony violation in Texas. Arrests included two confirmed human traffickers; a nurse at a major medical network in Dallas; four individuals with access to the secure area of DFW airport; four noncitizens with final orders of removal; one pending hire with a major city police department; and one prominent DFW city employee.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-dallas-led-operation-results-134-arrests-commercial-sex-transactions 

▫️Teen kicked out of house by dad is kidnapped on streets, forced into sex slavery
An 18-year-old New York City woman has been rescued from an alleged sex trafficker who met her online, drove her 70 miles from home and forced her into sex slavery for months, according to prosecutors. The victim, identified only as Jane Doe in court documents, had been kicked out of her father's house after she turned 18 and finished high school, authorities said. Finally, on Sept. 1, Jane Doe was able to get to a phone, which she used to call Polaris, the National Human Trafficking Hotline, according to authorities. Suffolk County Police picked her up and arrested  Javesh Persaud, 33.
https://www.foxnews.com/us/teen-kicked-house-dad-kidnapped-streets-forced-sex-slavery-prosecutor 

▫️Court docs show former Colorado Springs pastor, music teacher wanted to have sex with ex-lover's child
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - New details from court documents in the arrest of a former Colorado Springs pastor and music teacher show he was communicating with a former lover about having sex with her 9-year-old daughter. On Sept. 6, the Colorado Springs Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Unit (ICAC) was contacted by the Colorado Springs FBI Office. The FBI provided information that 30-year-old Jonathan Shaheen was communicating with a New Mexican couple who were exploiting their own children.
» https://krdo.com/news/2023/09/19/court-docs-show-former-colorado-springs-pastor-music-teacher-wanted-to-have-sex-with-ex-lovers-child/
»

▫️Dozens of Undocumented Immigrants Found in Deplorable Conditions in Rockland County Home: Possible Human Trafficking & Organized Effort
Local authorities received a tip that led them to the scene. Upon arrival, they found at least 31 individuals living in what has been described as some of the most atrocious conditions ever witnessed.
https://www.breakinglatest.news/news/dozens-of-undocumented-immigrants-found-in-deplorable-conditions-in-rockland-county-home-possible-human-trafficking-organized-effort/ 

▫️Docs: Over 600 tips lead to arrest for child porn
BROWNSBURG, Ind. – Hundreds of tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited (NCMEC) tips led to the arrest of a 70-year-old man police said possessed several files of child pornography. Frederick Carl Starks, 70, was arrested on Sept. 14 after the Boone County Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Task Force served a search warrant of Starks’ property.
https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/over-600-tips-lead-to-arrest-of-70-year-old-brownsburg-man-reportedly-possessing-child-pornography-police-say/  

▫️US girl, 14, finds phone taped to toilet seat on American Airlines flight
The family of a 14-year-old girl who allegedly discovered an iPhone taped to the back of a toilet seat on a flight from Charlotte in North Carolina to Boston said they believe she was targeted by a member of the crew. During the September 2 American Airlines flight 1441, the girl was told by a male member of the crew to use the first-class bathroom. The crew member entered just before the youngster, told her the seat was broken but not to worry about it and then re-entered the bathroom after she left, her family said in a written statement. After using the toilet, the girl realised that a largely obscured iPhone had been affixed to the back of the toilet seat, apparently to record her. She took a picture of this with her own phone before leaving the bathroom.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/united-states-canada/article/3235072/us-girl-14-finds-phone-taped-toilet-seat-american-airlines-flight-family 

▫️FOX23 joins Tulsa Police Department on undercover prostitution sting
TULSA, Okla. — FOX23 went on an exclusive undercover sting with Tulsa Police to catch people trying to pay for sex on Tuesday.
https://www.fox23.com/news/fox23-gets-a-look-at-a-tulsa-police-department-undercover-prostitution-sting/article_6220d198-575d-11ee-8864-cbd60682c80e.html      (VIDEO) 

▫️San Mateo Driving Instructor Sentenced for Coercing Minors to Produce Child Pornography
SAN FRANCISCO – On September 19, 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that San Mateo-based driving instructor Johnnatan Zelaya Izaguirre (Zelaya) was sentenced to serve 18 years in prison for coercing and enticing teenaged girls to produce child pornography and related crimes. Zelaya pleaded guilty to the charges on May 4, 2023.
https://cslea.com/2023/09/san-mateo-driving-instructor-sentenced-for-coercing-minors-to-produce-child-pornography/ 

▫️Former Great Falls teacher charged with sexual abuse of children
William James Harning, a former teacher at Great Falls High School, was charged recently with sexual abuse of children after law enforcement officers reportedly found pornographic images of children on his phone.
https://www.krtv.com/news/crime-and-courts/former-great-falls-teacher-charged-with-sexual-abuse-of-children 

▫️Opelika man found guilty of raping a child
An Opelika man was found guilty of raping a child and more, according to the Lee County District Attorney's office. Tyler Crews, 29, was found guilty of first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, sexual abuse of a child less than 12, production of child pornography and sexual torture. Due to the child's age, Crews will face a mandatory minimum sentence of life without the possibility of parole.
https://oanow.com/news/local/crime-courts/tyler-crews-found-guilty-lee-county/article_232df14c-5739-11ee-9161-8744028d8e92.html 

▫️Lake Park woman arrested on human trafficking, cruelty charges
LAKE PARK — After a joint investigation involving the Echols County Sheriff’s Office and the GBI’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) Unit, Genara Juan-Ramos, 30, of Lake Park has been charged with two counts of first-degree cruelty to children and one count of human trafficking.
https://www.mcduffieprogress.com/news/state/lake-park-woman-arrested-on-human-trafficking-cruelty-charges/article_274f64f6-f405-5f39-8bc5-09b27adcce2a.html 

▫️Virginia Beach sex trafficking survivor speaks at forum
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A sex trafficking survivor shared her story and the importance of a new law aimed at helping survivors during a forum at Virginia Wesleyan University Tuesday. Olivia was the first person in the state to have her record erased, which included misdemeanor charges, as part of the law. 
https://www.13newsnow.com/amp/article/news/local/mycity/virginia-beach/first-sex-trafficking-survivor-in-virginia-to-have-record-expunged-speaks/291-8bc7029e-107c-4f19-8b3d-8663cfd570ad     (VIDEO) 

▫️Yakima jury convicts Everett man with felony child rape charges
YAKIMA, Wash.- Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson Veniamin N. Gaidaichuk from Everett has been charged with felony second-degree child rape. He has also been charged with communication with a minor for immoral purposes. 
https://www.nbcrightnow.com/news/yakima-jury-convicts-everett-man-with-felony-child-rape-charges/article_1621f06a-5735-11ee-b305-43ca51256d0a.html      (VIDEO) 

▫️Jury convicts Virginia man of attempted sex trafficking of minor in undercover investigation in Billings
MISSOULA  — A federal jury today convicted a Virginia man of attempting to solicit a minor for sex during an undercover investigation in Billings, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. After a two-day trial that began in Missoula on Sept. 18, the jury found Mark Samuel Baker, 57, of Gore, Virginia, guilty of attempted sex trafficking of a minor as charged in an indictment. Baker faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and five years to life of supervised release.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mt/pr/jury-convicts-virginia-man-attempted-sex-trafficking-minor-undercover-investigation  

▫️Former Lieutenant for the Newport News Fire Department Sentenced for Coercion and Enticement of a Child and Receipt of Child Pornography
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Newport News man was sentenced yesterday to over 33 years in prison for coercion and enticement of a child and receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). According to court documents, in February 2022, Christopher Scott Jones, 43, used the internet to entice and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/pr/former-lieutenant-newport-news-fire-department-sentenced-coercion-and-enticement-child 

▫️Human trafficking awareness meeting taking place tonight in Florissant
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – Hazelwood school district families can learn about the dangers of human trafficking and the importance of cyber safety Wednesday night. The ‘Gateway Alliance Against Human Trafficking’ is hosting an informational meeting at the learning center on New Halls Ferry Road in Florissant. It’s from 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. The organization will teach parents how to identify human traffickers and their victims, how to help children know if they’re victims of human trafficking, and how to report it to the police.
»

▫️Local group brings awareness to human trafficking through social media
WHEELING, W.Va. – Social media has become one of the main sources of information, and one local group is using it to spread an important message.  The nonprofit group I.G.N.I.T.E. H.O.P.E. has made their name known in the Ohio Valley for their mission of bringing education and awareness to the area on human trafficking over the last few months.
https://www.wtrf.com/top-news/follow-i-g-n-i-t-e-h-o-p-e-on-facebook-local-group-brings-awareness-to-human-trafficking-through-social-media/ 

▫️ UNITAS Hosts Annual Fundraining Gala To End Human Trafficking
"The UNITAS Illuminate Gala brings together a vast network of supporters, educators, law enforcement agencies, humanitarians, founders, and partners for a night of unity and solidarity against human trafficking," said Tonya Turner, President and CEO of UNITAS. "We greatly appreciate the overwhelming support and are grateful for such an impactful evening. The funds raised during this event will empower the expansion of the Anthem Award-winning LIGHTS curriculum and provide critical survivor resources.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/unitas-hosts-annual-fundraising-gala-131000939.html 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Bloomington sex trafficking, prostitution sting nets 14 men arrested
BLOOMINGTON, Minn.  - A sex trafficking and prostitution sting in Bloomington has ended with the arrest of 14 men, and police chief Booker Hodges not mincing words at a news conference. "Don’t come to our city and try to mess with little girls man, you go to jail for that," Hodges said. Of the 14 men arrested, five were allegedly seeking prostitution services from minors.
»

▫️Operation Heat Wave: 25 People Arrested In Las Vegas Sex, Violent Crime Sweep
LAS VEGAS, Nev.  - The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported that it conducted “Operation Heat Wave” from August 14-September 8. The operation was a joint effort between the LVMPD Sex Offender Apprehension Team and the U.S. Marshals Service Nevada Violent Offender Task Force. According to a Metro report, the operation led to the arrest of 25 individuals for a variety of sex offenses and violent crimes. Anyone who may have been a victim of any of these subjects or has information about their crimes is urged to contact the LVMPD by phone at 702-828-3111.
» https://963kklz.com/2023/09/20/las-vegas-police-arrest-25-people-for-sex-offenses-violent-crimes/
» https://www.fox5vegas.com/2023/09/14/las-vegas-polices-operation-heat-wave-leads-25-sex-offender-arrests/ 

▫️Manatee County couple confesses to child sex abuse, sheriff's office says
BRADENTON, Fla. — A Manatee County couple was arrested last week for sexually abusing several underage victims, officials said on Wednesday. The Manatee County Sheriff's Office said their Internet Crimes Against Children Unit got multiple cyber tips in June from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding the media, which were transmitted over Facebook between Nicholas Bassler Jr., 24, and Sierra Campany, 24. Detectives said they know of three victims ranging in age from 6 months to 10 years old and that Bassler, Jr., and Campany confessed to the crimes. Detectives believe there could be more victims, and anyone who suspects a child had contact with Bassler, Jr. or Campany should contact Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Crimes Against Children detectives at (941) 747-3011 Ext. 2522.
» https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-sarasota-manatee/manatee-county-couple-confesses-to-child-sex-abuse      (VIDEO)
» https://www.foxnews.com/us/florida-couple-allegedly-performed-sex-acts-children-face-life-prison 

▫️Kyle, Texas, police arrest 5 men in human smuggling case
Kyle police have arrested five men in a human smuggling case where the men were allegedly trying to ransom victims for more money from their families. Kyle police said inside the home, officers located five people who had been smuggled across the U.S.-Mexico border. Once they arrived in the U.S., police said the smugglers held the victims for ransom to get more money from their families. Four of the victims gave interviews to the police, and one of the victims was taken to a hospital, where they remain as of Sept. 20. This is not the only recent human smuggling case in Hays County. Last week, San Marcos police arrested three men accused of kidnapping and smuggling a large number of undocumented immigrants.
» https://wcti12.com/news/nation-world/victims-held-for-ransom-by-suspected-human-smugglers-at-texas-home-kyle-rodrigo-rodriguez-villanueva-christian-martinez-isaac-briones-villela-carlos-briones-rogelio-fruto-sanchez-mexico
» https://www.kvue.com/article/news/crime/kyle-human-smuggling/269-ba04cc4a-ae66-429c-9535-4f048aaf1294 

▫️Man accused in Albuquerque murders tied to sex trafficking ring released from jail
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  – An Arizona man charged with a 2017 Albuquerque murder will be out on the streets while awaiting trial. Adrian Causey is accused of killing Tobi Stanfill and Daryl Young. Those murders have ties to a sex trafficking ring that was busted in Albuquerque in 2017. Three other people were also arrested related to those murders with Matthew Woods receiving an 18-year sentence in 2022. The judge is allowing Causey to live in Phoenix where he currently works. He is facing several felony charges including two counts of first-degree murder, armed robbery, and bribing a witness. APD also arrested Adrian Browne Wednesday who is believed to be connected to those murders.
»

▫️TPD arrests suspected police impersonator accused of sexual battery
TAMPA, Fla. - A man accused of impersonating a police officer and sexual battery has been arrested in Tampa. Detectives say that on July 14th, the victim informed them of the incident. The victim said that she met a man at a local hotel on May 20. The suspect, Sunny Gonzalez Jr., then began questioning the victim, asking her if she was trafficking guns or drugs, and told her he wasn't taking her to jail. Detectives say there may be more victims. Gonzalez Jr. is facing multiple charges, including impersonating a police officer, sexual battery and armed forced imprisonment, according to detectives.
https://www.fox13news.com/news/tpd-arrests-suspected-police-impersonator-accused-of-sexual-battery       (VIDEO) 

▫️Children's group home in Connecticut under DCF investigation after first responders raise concerns
State officials continue to investigate a Connecticut-funded group home in Harwinton following allegations of sex trafficking, violence and abuse that were detailed to Connecticut officials by local police and first responders. 
» https://insideinvestigator.org/cii-investigation-sparks-inquiry-from-ct-republicans/
» https://www.registercitizen.com/connecticut/article/hawinton-group-home-under-investigation-18369347.php 

▫️Grandview attorney indicted for having child sexual abuse images
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A Grandview Heights attorney was arrested Wednesday on federal charges including transporting, receiving and possessing child sex abuse images, according to U.S. Attorney Kenneth Parker. Stephen Chinn, 39, turned himself in and made his first appearance in federal court Wednesday afternoon. As of Wednesday, Chinn is listed as an active public defender in Franklin County.
https://www.10tv.com/article/news/crime/grandview-ohio-attorney-indicted-possessing-child-sexual-abuse-images/530-0c4209a7-2bdf-46c8-80b0-3fbeb89b5eae 

▫️Man arrested while awaiting trial for more than 100 counts of crimes against children, police say
TAZEWELL, Tenn. - A Tazewell man was charged with multiple crimes against children while awaiting trial for another 100 counts of crimes against children. A Claiborne Co. grand jury indicted 32-year-old Daniel Goins on five counts of continuous sexual abuse of a child and one count of aggravated rape. “Goins was indicted in April of 2020 and was awaiting trial on more than 100 plus counts of various crimes against children,” officials said. The investigation determined there were multiple victims in different locations.
https://www.wvlt.tv/2023/09/21/man-arrested-while-awaiting-trial-more-than-100-counts-crimes-against-children-police-say/      (VIDEO) 

▫️New Orleans Archdiocese confirms in 1999 they confronted accused child molester, wasn’t arrested until 2023
NEW ORLEANS — WDSU Investigates is digging deeper into new claims against a 92-year-old former priest now in jail accused of rape and kidnapping. The case against Lawrence Hecker rocked the New Orleans catholic church to its core, with alleged abuse from his arrest dating back to the 1970s.
» https://www.wdsu.com/article/new-orleans-archdiocese-confirms-in-1999-they-confronted-accused-child-molester-wasnt-arrested-until-2023/45212922#       (VIDEO)
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/new-orleans-archdiocese-confirms-in-1999-they-confronted-accused-child-molester-wasnt-arrested-until-2023/ 

▫️Wisconsin man faces 8 life sentences for child sex crimes
SPARTA — After less than an hour of deliberation, a Monroe County jury convicted Brian P. Sanders, 49, of all 19 charges related to sexual assault of a child filed against him Sept.19. District Attorney Kevin Croninger said Sanders was convicted on two counts of child enticement, six counts of third-degree sexual assault, five counts of exposing intimate parts, and six other charges. Eight of the convictions call for Sanders to be sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of release.
https://madison.com/news/state-regional/crime-courts/child-sexual-assault-crime-sparta-monroe-county-wisconsin/article_e373aee4-e249-525c-af25-287920a5d01b.html 

▫️Florida man sentenced to 60 years for child sex crimes overseas | ICE
PENSACOLA, Fla. — A Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Pensacola investigation led to the sentencing of Jason R. Moore, 43, of Milton, to 60 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of illicit sexual conduct in foreign places. Moore engaged in this conduct in the Republic of Fiji from March 2013 through February 2016.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/florida-man-sentenced-60-years-child-sex-crimes-overseas 

▫️Elizabeth Smart speaks at a local event fighting against human trafficking
NAMPA, Idaho — Human Trafficking stops here. That's the message at an event held by the Nampa Association of Realtors focusing on preventing human trafficking and abuse. Elizabeth Smart is one of the keynote speakers for the event. Nearly 20 years ago in 2002, Elizabeth Smart was kidnapped from her home in Salt Lake City Utah at the age of 14. She would then spend nine months of her life in captivity facing physical, mental, and emotional abuse and since her escape, she's been raising awareness of child abuse and human trafficking.
» https://www.kivitv.com/news/elizabeth-smart-speaks-at-a-local-event-fighting-against-human-trafficking
»

▫️Truckers come together as a community to fight human trafficking
HANOVER COUNTY, Va. -- The Truckers Against Trafficking Freedom Drivers Project made history Wednesday by hosting a first-of-its-kind mobile exhibit aimed at shedding light on the grim realities of human trafficking. The exhibit, which traveled to Richmond for the first time, seeks to educate truckers and the general public about human trafficking and ways to combat the issue.
https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/truckers-against-trafficking-sept-20-2023 

▫️Local agencies combating human trafficking to be honored at 3rd Annual Forever Freedom Celebration set for Friday
CLOVIS, Calif. - This Friday, you have the chance to celebrate the law enforcement agencies on the front lines combating human trafficking. "Breaking the Chains" is hosting the 3rd annual Forever Freedom celebration this Friday at 5.30 p.m. at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. This event features live entertainment, a variety of food trucks, silent auctions, open bar, dancing and an award ceremony.
https://abc30.com/breaking-the-chains-3rd-annual-forever-freedom-celebration-law-enforcement-agencies/13805385/ 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️More than 20 human trafficking victims rescued after 6 massage parlors raided in north Fulton - Roswell Police search 6 spas in human trafficking investigation, 3 arrested, 20 survivors
ROSWELL, Ga. — Police said detectives noticed that many spa locations were engaging in criminal activity, which led to the discovery of a prostitution and human trafficking network operating across six spa locations. Multiple victims associated with the spas were given support and resources, the police department said, adding that advocates from the Fulton County District Attorney's Office, along with a local anti-trafficking organization, Out of Darkness, were "present throughout the operation and played an integral role alongside investigators." This investigation is still ongoing, and additional charges and arrests are anticipated. Anyone with further information is asked to contact Detective Fields at nfields@roswellgov.com or call  770-640-4455.
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/more-than-20-human-trafficking-victims-rescued-after-6-massage-parlors-raided-north-fulton/IM4S46PRZJG3PNXVSAKZR5O6PU/
» https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/roswell-police-human-trafficking-investigation-arrests 
» https://patch.com/georgia/roswell/3-charged-human-trafficking-extensive-roswell-probe
»

▫️Child sex sting operation nets 12 in Ridgecrest
BAKERSFIELD, Calif.  — 12 people were arrested following an undercover operation by the Ridgecrest Police Department that targeted online child predators or those who wished to exploit children. The Ridgecrest Police Department arrested 12 individuals on suspicion of contacting a minor for sexual purposes during a sting operation over the last two months. "It was a four to five week sting operation that started in August and went into September," Sgt. Bill Groves said Thursday morning. According to Groves, four Ridgecrest police officers conducted an undercover operation where detectives posed as children age 12 through 16 on numerous social media sites and applications where adults allegedly engage in sexually explicit conversations with minors.
» https://www.ridgecrestca.com/news/child-sex-sting-operation-nets-12-in-ridgecrest/article_92b275ae-5899-11ee-a073-4f5531737acb.html
» https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/ridgecrest-police-arrest-12-in-undercover-operation-targeting-online-child-predators-rpd-kern-county-ridgecrest-lancaster-torrance-weldon-sanger 

▫️Moreno Valley Deputies Arrest 14 in Anti-Human Trafficking Operations Prostitution Sting in Riverside County
Riverside County Sheriff's Office officials report that on September 20, 2023, the Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station Riverside County Sheriff Problem Oriented Policing (POP) and Gang teams, along with the Riverside County Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force (RCAHT) conducted a comprehensive “John” prostitution sting in an effort to reduce the demand for sex trafficking in the city of Moreno Valley. The operation resulted in 14 arrests, 11 males for solicitation of prostitution, 2 females for prostitution, and one additional male for pimping. The females were later identified as potential victims of human trafficking and provided victim services and resources.
https://goldrushcam.com/sierrasuntimes/index.php/news/california/49837-moreno-valley-deputies-arrest-14-in-anti-human-trafficking-operations-prostitution-sting-in-riverside-county 

▫️Sex offender arrested in connection to incident at Richmond playground
A registered Kentucky sex offender was arrested for suspicious activity near a Richmond playground, according to police.

▫️Jefferson County Sheriff's Office arrests suspect for alleged human trafficking operation out of massage parlor
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office announced Thursday that its Special Investigations Unit arrested a suspect accused of human trafficking out of a massage parlor. According to the sheriff's office, Yuewu Zhao was taken into custody and charged with human trafficking for involuntary servitude. The sheriff's office also says a further investigation revealed a human trafficking operation where at least one female masseuse, who is a Chinese citizen, was coerced into performing labor including sexual acts, in exchange for a promise of a green card. Assistance and support to the trafficked victim is being provided by JCSO's Victim Services Unit and encourages everyone to report human trafficking cases to local law enforcement.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/jefferson-county-sheriffs-office-arrests-suspect-alleged-human-trafficking-operation-massage-parlor/
» https://www.jeffco.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=2133 

▫️Attempted kidnapping of teen foiled at local store in Oklahoma City
OKLAHOMA CITY — On September 18, an Oklahoma City police department was dispatched to Meridian for an attempted kidnapping involving teens. Officers found the suspect's vehicle at 42 NW 10th Street. He has been identified as Edgar Ordonez.
https://okcfox.com/news/local/attempted-kidnapping-of-teen-foiled-at-local-store-in-oklahoma-city 

▫️Child exploitation sting leads to arrest of Jacksonville man
ORANGE PARK – Reginald Renaldo Jefferson, 29, was charged with using a computer to seduce or lure a child for sex, traveling to meet a minor for sex, attempting to flee law enforcement and using his cellphone to facilitate a felony. According to the affidavit for arrest, deputies with Operation Shining Light contacted Jefferson on Aug. 3 and 4. He agreed to meet a 14-year-old “child” at Kingsley Avenue and Blanding Boulevard for a “qv,” which stands for a “quick” sexual encounter.
https://www.claytodayonline.com/stories/child-exploitation-sting-leads-to-arrest-of-jacksonville-man,85767 

▫️Child-sex offender captured in Shrewsbury after escaping from hospital
ST. LOUIS — A child-sex offender was captured Thursday night after escaping from a St. Louis County hospital, leading to a manhunt that transfixed much of the region as schools kept children indoors, helicopters circled the city, and officers with guns drawn and a hound in tow flooded Tower Grove Park. Tommy Wayne Boyd, 45, was captured without incident around 8 p.m. near the Kenrick Plaza Wal-Mart in the 7300 block of Watson Road, said St. Louis County police Sgt. Tracy Panus.
» https://fox2now.com/news/missouri/escaped-prisoner-wanted-who-is-tommy-wayne-boyd/
» https://www.yahoo.com/news/entertainment/dangerous-child-sex-offender-escapes-041656552.html  

▫️Man accused of trying to abduct 6 women
BELLAIRE, Texas - A man accused of nearly abducting six women in the Houston area has been arrested. Bellaire police said 29-year-old Amar Barkouda has spent the last three days terrorizing a Bellaire neighborhood, nearly abducting six different young women. “We know this individual is dangerous and really needs to be off the streets,”  Bellaire Police Chief Onesimo Lopez said.
» https://www.wtvy.com/2023/09/22/man-accused-trying-abduct-6-women/ 
»

▫️Evangelist, wife face multiple child rape, sexual abuse charges in Tennessee
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  - An evangelist is facing a slew of child rape and sexual abuse charges in Murfreesboro, according to court records. Murfreesboro Police said 32-year-old Benjamin Garlick has been charged with five counts of aggravated rape of a child, five counts of aggravated sexual battery, sexual exploitation of a child and continuous sexual abuse of a child. His wife, 29-year-old Shaantal Garlick, is also facing charges, according to police. She is charged with the facilitation of aggravated rape of a child and aggravated child abuse, neglect and endangerment.
https://www.kwtx.com/2023/09/21/evangelist-wife-face-multiple-child-rape-sexual-abuse-charges-tennessee/ 

▫️Bellingham man accused of 2 dozen sex crimes, many involving children, police say
Whatcom County Sheriff’s detectives arrested Brian Matthew Drake on Tuesday, Sept. 19. He was booked into jail without incident the same day. The charges include: suspicion of seven counts of first-degree child molestation, three counts of first-degree child rape, three counts of indecent liberties, two counts of first-degree incest, one count of attempted first-degree child rape, one count of second-degree child rape, one count of attempted second-degree child rape, one count of third-degree child rape, one count of attempted third-degree child rape, one count of second-degree child molestation, one count of second-degree rape, one count of second-degree assault with sexual motivation, one count of intimidating a witness and one count of voyeurism, according to a Thursday, Sept. 21, sheriff’s office press release.
https://www.aol.com/news/bellingham-man-accused-2-dozen-224109626.html  

▫️WCSD teacher Ryley Coker charged with child sexual exploitation
A teacher at Hug High School was arrested Thursday and charged with two felony counts of solicitation of a child for prostitution and abuse of a child involving sexual exploitation. Ryley Coker, who has worked for the district since 2014, was arrested by school police. The 32-year-old is listed as a special education teacher at Hug.
https://www.rgj.com/story/news/crime/2023/09/21/washoe-county-school-district-teacher-ryley-coker-charged-child-sexual-exploitation/70925340007/ 

▫️Oakland County man convicted on 11 felonies including multiple counts of human trafficking
An Oakland County jury has convicted 52-year-old Richard Coleman on 11 felony charges, including multiple counts of human trafficking, first-degree criminal sexual conduct, third-degree criminal sexual conduct, and maintaining a drug house. Police said over 20 women were identified as having been abused and trafficked by Coleman.
https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2023/09/21/oakland-county-man-convicted-on-11-felonies-including-multiple-counts-of-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Former Round Rock pastor sentenced to prison after discovery of child pornography stash
A Georgetown man who was formerly the pastor of a Round Rock church was sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison on Wednesday after more than 100,000 child pornography images were found on his computer hard drives. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 57-year-old David Lloyd Walther searched for, downloaded, distributed and possessed child sexual abuse material, some of which depicted prepubescent minors.
https://cbsaustin.com/news/local/former-round-rock-pastor-sentenced-to-prison-after-discovery-of-child-pornography-stash-david-lloyd-walther-faith-baptist-church-child-sexual-abuse-material-distribution-search-faith-leader-law-enforcement-justice-sentencing 

▫️Olympic medalist sues US bobsled team doctor for sexual abuse
Aja Evans, a 2014 Olympic bobsled bronze medalist, has filed a lawsuit alleging that a doctor who worked on Team USA's medical staff subjected her to nearly a decade of sexual abuse and harassment during treatment. The doctor, Jonathan Wilhelm, as well as the United States Olympic Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and USA Bobsled and Skeleton Federation were named as defendants in the lawsuit filed on Wednesday in a state court in upstate New York.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-12546603/Olympic-medalist-sues-US-bobsled-team-doctor-sexual-abuse.html 

▫️Lake County Walk for Freedom Steps Against Human Trafficking
Human trafficking, often called “modern-day slavery,” remains a dark underbelly of our global society, silently ensnaring millions into its grim web. On October 14, hundreds of community members will walk as a beacon of hope and resistance against this horrific crime at the third annual Lake County Walk for Freedom held at Lake-Sumter State College in Leesburg.
https://lakeandsumterstyle.com/lake-county-walk-for-freedom-steps-against-human-trafficking/  

▫️Human Trafficking Awareness Event - Mid Michigan College
Wednesday, October 25, 11:15am Mt. Pleasant Campus | Community Room - RSVP Required
https://www.midmich.edu/community/news/human-trafficking-awareness-event 
_

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News

▫️Operation Pumpkin Spice: Midland County Sheriff's Office and DPS' Operation leads to 11 arrests
MIDLAND COUNTY, Texas — MCSO announced on Friday that 11 people were arrested for solicitation of prostitution and some of the people have additional charges as well.
» https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mcso-arrests-11-in-two-day-prostitution-sting/
» https://www.newswest9.com/article/news/crime/midland-county-sheriffs-office-and-dps-operation-pumpkin-spice-leads-to-11-arrests/513-01020ca5-65fb-4c1c-a584-70e6c65f22f9  

▫️Former Kensington cop sexually assaulted 48 women and children — 44 unidentified — many while on duty, prosecutors say
In criminal court on Monday, Philly prosecutors shared what they say is a fraction of the photo and video evidence they've collected that shows a former Kensington police officer sexually assaulting women and children in his patrol car while on duty in at least two North Philly police districts. Patrick Heron, who faces over 200 sex crime charges, worked as a police officer for the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) for 24 years before resigning in 2019. So far, investigators from the District Attorney’s Office have connected the charges against Heron to at least 48 female victims, 44 of whom are unidentified “Jane Does,” prosecutors said. According to Jane Roh, the spokesperson for the DA's Office, some of those victims may have been as young as 10 years old. While Heron, 53, was on the police force, he targeted vulnerable women and girls who would be less likely to report a sexual assault, prosecutors said. Those victims included children who ran away from home, women and children in police custody, and others struggling with drug addiction. Victims and witnesses who may have more information about this case are urged to contact the DA Office's Special Investigations Unit at 215–686–9608 or DAO_SIU@phila.gov.
https://www.kensingtonvoice.com/en/patrick-heron-philly-cop-sex-assault-kensington/ 

▫️LI teacher removed as AI sex sting video circulates
HERRICKS, N.Y.  – A Long Island schoolteacher has been removed from the classroom after he may have been identified using AI in a YouTuber’s “To Catch a Predator”–style sex sting. The middle school teacher works for the Herricks Union Free School District in Nassau County, according to school officials, who said they are investigating the “disturbing and upsetting video.”
https://www.audacy.com/1010wins/news/long-island-teacher-removed-as-ai-sex-sting-video-circulates 

▫️Sacramento sheriff’s detectives arrest man accused of ‘years-long’ child sexual abuse
Sacramento County sheriff’s detectives earlier this week arrested a 39-year-old man accused of sexually abusing a child — alleged crimes authorities said went on for years before the child told a school employee about the abuse. Vincent Anthony Trillo was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of 19 counts of committing lewd or lascivious acts with a child younger than 14 years old by using force or fear, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday in a news release.
https://ca.style.yahoo.com/sacramento-sheriff-detectives-arrest-man-232120496.html 

▫️Harwinton group home for teens center of investigation into sexual assault, trafficking allegations
HARWINTON, Conn. — A group home for teenage girls in Harwinton is the center of an investigation into allegations of sexual assault and trafficking, according to authorities. The Connecticut General Assembly’s Committee on Children will hold an informational hearing about the ongoing investigation into the group home. The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) confirmed three incidents involving physical abuse or sexual assault between minors and staff since 2021. Connecticut Department of Children and Families Vanessa Dorantes said there was a case of sex trafficking involving a minor and adult male outside of the home in April. “There were just way too many incidents that started to show a spiraling of what was happening in this particular home,” Dorantes said.
» https://www.wbrc.com/video/2023/09/22/video-assault-violence-sex-trafficking-part-allegations-made-against-harwinton-youth-group-home/       (VIDEO)
» https://www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/hartford/harwinton-group-home-for-teen-girls-center-of-investigation-into-sexual-assault-trafficking-allegations/
» https://ktvz.com/cnn-regional/2023/09/22/assault-violence-sex-trafficking-part-of-allegations-made-against-harwinton-youth-group-home/  

▫️Whatcom detectives arrest man for over 15 child sex crimes
WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Detectives from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) arrested on Thursday a 31-year-old man for over 15 child sex crimes, including but not limited to Rape of a Child 1st Degree & Seven Counts of Child Molestation 1st Degree.
https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/whatcom-detectives-arrest-man-over-15-child-sex-crimes/452YW5K35JGERHPIMTYP3KUKPA/ 

▫️Paris Man Arrested Following Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Investigation
PARIS – An investigation by special agents with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of partner law enforcement agencies, has resulted in the arrest of a man from Paris. Justin D. Farris (DOB 2/10/83) was arrested and booked into the Henry County Jail on counts of Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor and Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
https://tbinewsroom.com/2023/09/20/paris-man-arrested-following-sexual-exploitation-of-a-minor-investigation/ 

▫️Hearing for Northern California man suspected of worldwide child abuse put off for months
A Northern California man suspected of abusing hundreds of boys worldwide has had his next court hearing pushed back until next year as his lawyers contend with extensive amounts of evidence in the case. Brad Reger, a nurse practitioner who was active in Christian schools, youth groups and summer camps in Susanville and elsewhere for years, had been scheduled to appear next Thursday before U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley for a status conference. Reger was indicted in July by a federal grand jury on charges of engaging in illicit sexual activity abroad, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and coercion, and enticement. Reger is accused of abusing three minors in Susanville, Nevada, Virginia, Poland and the Philippines from 2006 through 2014.
https://ca.style.yahoo.com/hearing-northern-california-man-suspected-201338301.html 

▫️WATCH: Suspected child predator caught in Colorado Springs
» https://www.wbrc.com/video/2023/09/22/watch-suspected-child-predator-caught-colorado-springs/ 
 »

▫️Three men charged for kidnapping, ransoming Inland Empire teen
Three men are facing life sentences after they allegedly kidnapped a 17-year-old boy. According to the United States Department of Justice, the three men demanded a ransom of $500,000, and when it went unpaid for several days, they threatened to start cutting off body parts from the teenager. "Together with the FBI and our local law enforcement partners, we have acted swiftly to rescue the victim and bring the abductors to justice. On Sept. 22, investigators raided the room the group was staying in. In the motel room, law enforcement found the three men, one of whom was armed with a handgun. Investigators found the teenager lying on the floor in the corner.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/three-men-charged-for-kidnapping-ransoming-inland-empire-teen/    (VIDEO)
» https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/three-defendants-arrested-federal-complaint-alleging-they-kidnapped-inland-empire 

▫️No charges filed against two Catholic priests accused of sexual abuse in Converse, Honey Creek
CONVERSE, Texas – No criminal charges have been filed against two Catholic priests in the San Antonio Archdiocese accused of sexual abuse against minors. Both priests were removed from their church duties last month by the archdiocese. According to San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, Father Alejandro Ortega, a priest at St. Monica’s Church in Converse, was accused of sexually inappropriate physical contact with a minor.
» https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2023/09/20/no-charges-filed-against-two-catholic-priests-accused-of-sexual-abuse-in-converse-honey-creek/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2023/09/no-charges-filed-against-two-catholic-priests-accused-of-sexual-abuse-in-converse-honey-creek/ 

▫️Carlsbad teacher, hockey coach Daniel Dasko sentenced to 16 years in 'Mr. Pickles' child sex abuse case
CARLSBAD, Calif. — A former Carlsbad teacher and youth hockey coach was sentenced to nearly 16 years in prison in a federal court on Tuesday for his role in a scheme to bait children into sending sexually explicit images and circulate them online. Daniel Zachary Dasko, 32, pleaded guilty to one count relating to the distribution of images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct in April. He is currently out on bond and was ordered to report to prison on Oct. 3., the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. Along with at least two other individuals across the country, Dasko targeted minors on social media while posing as adolescent girls to prompt them to send sexually explicit material of themselves. Several of the minors, prosecutors say, were selected because the former substitute and teacher’s aide provided their names and online information to his coconspirators.
https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/teacher-hockey-coach-sentenced-to-16-years-in-mr-pickles-child-sex-abuse-case/ 

▫️Join Mrs. Parker at Wine & Dress Event 
Sunday, September 24, 2023; 4.00 PM  7.30 PM; Rooftop at Carla Madison Center; 2401 East Colfax AvenueDenver, CO, 80206
https://mrscolorado.com/new-events/2023/9/24/join-mrs-parker-at-human-trafficking-awareness-event 

▫️Child predator arrested in Lafayette
LAFAYETTE, La. – A Lafayette man was arrested after trying to meet up with a 14-year-old girl he met online. The teen, however, was actually a predator catching group. The group gave KLFY exclusive access to the undercover operation. News 10 met with Joseph Black, the director of Louisiana Dad’s Against Pedophiles, at an undisclosed location, where he was given a microphone, hidden underneath his shirt.
» https://www.klfy.com/local/lafayette-parish/lafayette-man-arrested-in-predator-sting-after-attempting-to-meet-with-14-year-old/ 
»

▫️ERO New York City arrests Mexican national, child sex offender
NEW YORK — On Sept. 19, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) New York City arrested an unlawfully present Mexican national convicted by the New York Supreme Criminal Court of first-degree sexual abuse; contact with an individual less than 11 years old.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-new-york-city-arrests-mexican-national-child-sex-offender

▫️ERO Boston arrests unlawfully present Guatemalan citizen charged with rape of a child
BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston arrested an unlawfully present Guatemalan citizen Sept. 19 in Beverly. The Guatemalan citizen was recently arrested by local police and arraigned on charges of aggravated rape and indecent assault and battery on a child.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-arrests-unlawfully-present-guatemalan-citizen-charged-rape-child 

▫️Marjorie Taylor Greene Announces 'Absurd'  Declaration Of War Against Mexican Cartels
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) wants to declare war — but not against a country. The Republican lawmaker said Thursday that she is “drafting a Declaration of War against the Mexican cartels,” even though the last formal declaration of war by Congress occurred during World War II and the Constitution only permits declarations of war against actual nations. Greene claimed she wasn’t targeting the Mexican government or people before calling a recent influx of migrants — many of them asylum-seekers — an “invasion.” She then declared: “Our country is under attack.” “Who’s responsible for 300 Americans dying every single day from fentanyl, who’s responsible for a multibillion-dollar human trafficking and drug trafficking industry that directly affects the United States of America,” said Greene. “That is the Mexican cartels.”
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/marjorie-taylor-greene-announces-absurd-180643720.html 
_