Who's in the News?

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Band of border kidnappers apprehended, woman rescued
SAN DIEGO  — A group of kidnappers said to be responsible for several abductions throughout northern Baja California has been taken apart, prosecutors say.
María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the state’s Attorney General, said members of this criminal cell were arrested last Saturday when a 21-year-old woman was rescued by special agents.
The victim had been taken at gunpoint and shoved into a van two days earlier, Andrade Ramírez said.
» https://fox5sandiego.com/news/border-report/band-of-border-kidnappers-apprehended/
» https://www.borderreport.com/immigration/border-crime/band-of-border-kidnappers-apprehended/ 

▫️Florida girl still missing after mother's boyfriend arrested for disturbing images
13-year-old Madeline Soto is still missing after her mother's boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, was arrested for sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material, Florida officials said Thursday. 
Soto was last seen February 26. Sterns, 37, was the last person to see her, the Orange County Sheriff's Office said in a news release. 
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/madeline-soto-florida-stephan-sterns-arrested-missing-teen-disturbing-images/ 

▫️Woman missing since 2017 reunites with family after Michigan State Police rescue
A woman missing since 2017 is back with her family following a tip to Michigan State Police.
The recovery effort began with a woman calling state police Monday to report that her stepdaughter, missing since 2017, had contacted her and was being held against her will in an Inkster motel.
Police began investigating and found that the victim was being held at Evergreen Motel in Inkster. Detectives and Metro South Post troopers then went to the motel, where they heard a girl screaming and crying in a motel room, made forcible entry, and recovered the victim.
https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/wayne/2024/02/29/missing-woman-reunites-family-police-rescue/72792410007/ 

▫️Lawrence man charged with solicitation in prostitution sting
A Lawrence man was among six arrested for showing up at a hotel to pay for sex, according to a statement from Massachusetts State Police.
Law enforcement posed online as escorts and arranged to meet with six men from across the region. Each faces the charge of sexual conduct for a fee.
https://www.aol.com/lawrence-man-charged-solicitation-prostitution-122800063.html 

▫️Child predator arrested in Danville attempts suicide on way to jail
(UPDATE) Alleged Child Predator Dead After Committing Suicide During Transport To Contra Costa County Jail
Investigators went to a residence in Danville to arrest a suspect who solicited a detective posing as a 13-year-old boy for sex. The suspect, a 50-year-old Hispanic male out of Fairfield, CA, was arrested for arranging a meeting with a minor for lewd purposes (PC 288.4(b)), contacting a minor to commit a felony (PC 288.3(a)), at-tempted lewd acts on a child (PC 664/288(a)), attempted sending harmful material to seduce a minor (PC 664/288.2(a)(1), and resisting arrest (PC 148).
While being transported to the Martinez Detention Facility, the suspect attempted suicide by hanging himself. Medical aid was rendered, and the suspect was transported to a local hospital. The investigation is ongoing.
The arrestee who attempted suicide while being transported to the Martinez Detention Facility was pronounced deceased while at the hospital. He is identified as 50-year-old Jaime Rodriguez of Fairfield.
» https://www.claycord.com/2024/02/29/update-alleged-child-predator-dead-after-committing-suicide-during-transport-to-contra-costa-county-jail/
» https://countylocalnews.com/2024/03/01/jaime-rodriguez-man-dies-in-custody-after-suicide-attempt-in-danville/
» https://contracostaherald.com/child-predator-arrested-in-danville-attempts-suicide-on-way-to-jail/ 

▫️Police: Baby kidnapped, three Johnstown residents facing charges
JOHNSTOWN, Pa.  — Three Johnstown residents are facing charges after allegedly kidnapping a one-year-old after beating up the parents.
Rebecca Vanskiver, 34, Gerald Baez-Campos, 24, and Kathleen Nash, 54, are all facing felony charges of kidnapping for ransom after police were called to the Johnstown train station on reports of a one-year-old being taken on Feb. 28. When police arrived, the parents of the child claimed that they had been assaulted before the child was taken.
All three are facing felony kidnapping for ransom, felony aggravated assault with attempts to cause severe bodily injury and felony terroristic threats with intent to terrorize another charges along with other related charges.
» https://www.wtaj.com/crime/police-baby-kidnapped-three-johnstown-residents-facing-charges/ 
»

▫️Man caught in child predator sting by LCSO
EUBANK – A 52-year-old man was arrested by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office after a child predator sting operation revealed he was soliciting sex from a nine-year-old girl.  Ronald R. Sparks of 150 Collins Spur Road in Eubank was intercepted by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) on Feb. 24 while he was allegedly on his way to meet a nine-year-old girl for sexual purposes.
Sparks was arrested and charged with procuring or promoting use of a minor by electronic means; kidnapping a minor (attempt); and third-degree unlawful transaction with a minor (attempt).
https://www.amnews.com/2024/02/29/man-caught-in-child-predator-sting-by-lcso/ 

▫️Indianapolis Man Arrested for Attempted Child Solicitation in Vigo County Sting Operation
Demetrius A. King walked into a carefully laid trap, believing he was meeting a 13-year-old girl for sex.
Currently held in the Vigo County Jail, King awaits formal charges for child solicitation, a Level 4 felony.
https://bnnbreaking.com/local-news/indianapolis-man-arrested-for-attempted-child-solicitation-in-vigo-county-sting-operation 

▫️Two sex offenders arrested in Kootenai County after month-long surveillance
Conrad E. Fallentine, 44, and Christian R. Green, 52 were the subjects of a month-long investigation by The Kootenai County Sheriff's office. 
The investigation involved daily and nightly surveillance at two different locations in Post Falls and Coeur d'Alene. 
During the surveillance, detectives established probably cause to believe Fallentine and Green had illegally moved into a house on N. Westwind Drive near Post Falls within 500 feet of Genesis Prep Academy, a K-12 school.
Both men were charged on counts of sex offender registration violations, failure to notify of an address change and for providing false information. This is an on-going investigation.
» https://www.khq.com/news/kootenai-sheriff-s-office-leads-investigation-that-results-in-the-arrest-of-sex-offenders/article_a4b85744-d776-11ee-9200-331896294f8c.html
» https://www.kxly.com/news/two-sex-offenders-arrested-in-kootenai-county-after-month-long-surveillance/article_197307ac-d784-11ee-b5dc-bf05a34cfb1a.html 

▫️Ohio Child Pornography Sting Leads to Arrests, Including Defense Lawyer
Two northeast Ohio men find themselves behind bars after separate investigations by the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force.
John Chaffin Jr., a 34-year-old man, was promptly arrested facing charges of pandering obscenity involving a minor alongside drug paraphernalia offenses.
Barry Stephens, a 63-year-old resident, was arrested after a preview of his computer revealed a vast collection of child pornography.
» https://www.wkbn.com/news/local-news/2-separate-arrests-made-on-child-pornography-charges/
» https://www.wfmj.com/story/50519104/two-columbiana-co-men-facing-charges-after-searches-reveal-child-pornography 

▫️Queens Man Faces Sex Trafficking Charges in Cross-Border Case
QUEENS COUNTY — Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the indictment of Hector Galindo Capultitla on charges related to sex trafficking, including acts of violence against a Mexican woman forced into prostitution in Mexico and the United States. Galindo Capultitla, 39, from Corona, Queens, was arraigned on a seven-count indictment, with allegations of exploiting the victim over a three-year period through physical abuse and threats to her family.
The indictment includes charges of sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, coercion, and assault, with Galindo Capultitla facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted. Supreme Court Justice Peter Vallone Jr. has scheduled the next court appearance for March 21.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2024/02/29/queens-man-faces-sex-trafficking-charges-in-cross-border-case/ 

▫️Two Chesterfield massage businesses under investigation for illegal sexual activity
CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. - Two massage businesses located in opposite parts of Chesterfield County are now at the center of criminal investigations.
According to Chesterfield Police, an undercover detective caught employees offering illegal sexual activities for money during a massage.
If you have any information that could help police with these investigations you are asked to call chesterfield police special investigations division at 804-453-3758.
https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/chesterfield-massage-investigation-february-29-2024 

▫️Doniphan teen accused in human trafficking case to be tried as adult
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - A judge ruled Wednesday that the juvenile court system is not the place for a Doniphan teenager accused of blackmailing female victims.
Cody Holum, 17, of Doniphan, faces 17 felony charges, including five counts of first degree sexual assault and 12 counts of human trafficking.
» https://nebraska.tv/news/local/doniphan-teen-accused-in-human-trafficking-case-to-be-tried-as-adult 
»

▫️East New York couple indicted for sex trafficking 15-year-old girl
The DA’s office alleges that Daryl Hicks, 38, and Michelle Wicks, 31, met the teenage victim and induced her to engage in acts of prostitution across Brooklyn.
The victim was reported missing days later after reaching out to her foster mother and sending her photos. On Dec. 30, 2022, detectives from the Human Trafficking Squad went to the Imperial Hotel in East New York and found the victim inside a room registered to Hicks, according to the DA’s office.
Hicks was arraigned on Feb. 28 before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun, charged with with sex trafficking of a child, second-, third- and fourth-degree promoting prostitution, third-degree rape, use of a child in a sexual performance, endangering the welfare of a child, possessing a sexual performance by a child and promoting a sexual performance by a child.
Wicks was indicted for sex trafficking of a child and related charges.
» https://www.brooklynpaper.com/east-new-york-couple-indicted-sex-trafficking/
» https://brooklyneagle.com/articles/2024/02/29/couple-charged-with-forcing-a-15-year-old-girl-into-prostitution/ 

▫️Jonathan Bellow indicted on attempted child sex charges out of Hubbard, Ohio
Jonathan Bellow, 44, is charged with attempted unlawful conduct with a minor, a fourth-degree felony and attempted importuning, a first-degree misdemeanor.
The arrest stems from a sting operation conducted by “citizen predator catchers.”
The police department urges anyone with additional information related to this case or other potential predators to come forward and contact the Trumbull County Dispatch Center at 330-675-2730.
https://www.wytv.com/news/local-news/man-indicted-on-attempted-child-sex-charges/amp/ 

▫️Sex Offender Sentenced to 25 Years to Life for Aggravated Sexual Assault on a Child and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material
The Attorney General’s Office announced that Edwin Read, 31, formerly of Royalton and Barre, Vermont, was sentenced today in Vermont Superior Court, Windsor Criminal Division, after previously pleading guilty to one count of felony Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, one count of felony Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material  – Second Offense, one count of misdemeanor Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registry, and one count of misdemeanor Unlawful Mischief. Mr. Read was sentenced by the court to 25 years to life to serve.
In November 2019, a child disclosed having been sexually abused by Mr. Read. During an interview with VT-ICAC detectives, Mr. Read admitted to sexually abusing the child and possessing child sexual abuse material on his devices.
http://ago.vermont.gov/blog/2024/02/29/sex-offender-sentenced-25-years-life-aggravated-sexual-assault-child-and-possession-child-sexual 

▫️Former teacher and coach sentenced in sex abuse case
Former South Floyd Elementary School Assistant Principal April Bradford, 51, of Weeksbury, was sentenced Feb. 29, after being found guilty of sexually abusing two students between 1997 and 2007.
Bradford was sentenced to three and a half years in jail and will have to register for life as a sex offender with the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry.
As part of the plea agreement, Bradford admitted to sexually abusing the two minors between 1997 and 2007 during the victims’ middle and high school years. During that time Bradford acted as a teacher and coach to the minors.
» https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/former-floyd-county-administrator-to-serve-3-5-years-in-prison-for-sex-crimes-against-students/   (VIDEO)
» https://www.floydct.com/news/former-teacher-and-coach-sentenced-in-sex-abuse-case/article_104db9dc-d753-11ee-9100-833ef6766760.html
» https://www.kentucky.com/news/local/crime/article286095911.html 

▫️The Heat Initiative: Combatting Online Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) with Sarah Gardner
Under Sarah’s leadership, the Heat Initiative has launched a multi channel campaign to pressure Apple, and eventually other technology providers as well, to do the right thing - to implement policies and technologies to help eliminate harmful sexual abuse material from their platforms, and to bring the perpetrators of this type of sex trafficking to justice.
»

▫️'It is happening here': Charlevoix Zonta hosts movie, panel on human trafficking
CHARLEVOIX — Charlevoix’s Zonta Club pushed the issue of human trafficking to the forefront of the city’s collective mind on Wednesday, Feb. 21 with an event at the Charlevoix Cinema.  
With a screening of the Michigan-made movie “Ring of Silence” and a discussion afterwards involving a panel of experts, the organization — whose purpose is advocating for women’s and girls’ rights — facilitated a community conversation about an important issue that “no one wants to discuss or that no one wants to believe can happen in his or her neighborhood."
https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/news/local/charlevoix/2024/03/01/charlevoix-zonta-hosts-movie-showing-expert-panel-on-human-trafficking/72693374007/ 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Weslaco police chief: Abducted teen found
13-year-old girl  Esmeralda Mireles at the center of an Amber Alert was found and is safe in police custody, according to Weslaco police Chief Joel Rivera. The teen was last seen Thursday at around 3 a.m. in the area of 100 N. Kansas Avenue, according to a news release from police.
The Amber Alert issued late Thursday night identified 37-year-old Luis Gomez as a suspect wanted in connection with the abduction.
» https://www.krgv.com/news/weslaco-police-chief-abducted-teen-found     (VIDEO)
» https://www.valleycentral.com/news/local-news/amber-alert-issued-for-abducted-weslaco-girl/ 

▫️Missing 13-year-old girl: Orange Co. sheriff says mom’s boyfriend arrested

▫️Van Buren man arrested after women rescued from his home
VAN BUREN, Ind. — A Van Buren man was arrested Friday after an investigation into human sex trafficking.
Officers responded to a disturbance call in the 400 block of West Main Street around 3:40 a.m. Friday and discovered two women, a mother and her adult daughter, had barricaded themselves inside a room in the home.
The victims said they lived in the home after coming to Indiana from Venezuela in April 2023 on a work visa sponsored by the 59-year-old man who was arrested.
The sheriff's office said the deputies requested assistance from detectives after recognizing the signs of human trafficking. An arrest warrant was later issued for Gregory M. Marsh, who was taken into custody on preliminary charges of promotion of human sexual trafficking, domestic battery, criminal confinement and voyeurism.
» https://www.wthr.com/article/news/crime/van-buren-indiana-man-arrested-promotion-of-human-sexual-trafficking-after-women-rescued-from-his-home/531-bfebd3d2-9323-41d3-a8c7-7663a3d2dcad
»  https://fox59.com/news/grant-county-man-arrested-for-human-sex-trafficking/
»

▫️Rome Floyd Metro Task Force Makes Arrests for Child Molestation and Human Trafficking
The Rome Floyd Metro Task Force arrested three people Thursday night, in separate incidents, charging them with human trafficking for sexual servitude and aggravated child molestation, reports state. According to Floyd County Jail reports:
Tile Ceatrice McGill, 32, and Quintavius Davian Marques Dean, 28, both of Rome, and Christopher Jacob Theobald, 36, of Dallas, are all charged with human trafficking and aggravated child molestation charges.
They are each accused of contacting a person they believed to be under 16-years-old and agreeing to pay for sex with that person then travelling to a place to meet the child.
https://www.northwestgeorgianews.com/rome/news/local/rome-floyd-metro-task-force-arrests-three-on-child-molestation-and-human-trafficking-charges/article_83345b1c-d7f4-11ee-992e-97dba611dcc8.html 

▫️Convicted sex offender from Morrisville charged with sexually abusing, recording minor in UK
A Morrisville man previously convicted of child sex abuse is accused of traveling overseas where he recorded himself engaging in sexual activity with a child.
Gregory J. Barger, 38, made his initial court appearance in the New Jersey U.S. District Court in Trenton on Friday. He was indicted last month on one count each of sexual exploitation of a child to produce child pornography and coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual conduct.
Federal investigators allege Barger, a registered sex offender in Pennsylvania, used an electronic messaging app to communicate with a minor in the United Kingdom for two years starting in 2020. In the messages, authorities allege Barger enticed, and coerced the minor to engage in sexual conduct with him.
https://www.phillyburbs.com/story/news/local/2024/03/01/morrisville-gregory-barger-new-jersey-uk-child-porn-sexual-abuse-pennsylvania-bucks-county/72807092007/
» https://midjersey.news/2024/03/01/morrisville-pa-man-arrested-in-hamilton-nj-indicted-on-child-pornography-and-online-enticement-of-a-minor/ 

▫️IMPD bust sex trafficking operation believed to be tied to gang
INDIANAPOLIS — Detectives believe a South American gang is behind a sex trafficking operation busted in Indianapolis.
IMPD says they got a tip Tuesday morning that a teenage girl told a neighbor she and four other women were being held and sex trafficked at a house on Eagledale Drive, just south of 30th Street and just north of the Brickyard Crossing Golf Course.
Police did not catch the boss at the house. But detectives believe this operation is the work of the El Tren de Aragua gang based in Venezuela. The gang started in a prison in Venezuela 20 years ago. ) 
» https://www.wthr.com/article/news/crime/impd-police-bust-sex-trafficking-operation-believed-to-be-tied-to-south-american-gang-el-tren-de-aragua-indianapolis-indiana-eagledale-drive/531-8fd88467-4d62-4e1d-81ba-3c66b4db547f  (VIDEO) 
»

▫️Man arrested for online exploitation of children
PANAMA CITY, Fla.  - A Bay County man is in custody after deputies say he solicited a 14-year-old child online.
Peter B. Keukelaar, from Southport, was communicating with the minor over social media. He would offer payment in exchange for nude images.
The Panama City Police Department started investigating Keukelaar after he had solicited another 14-year-old for nude images.
On February 26th, 2024, PCPD and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office contacted Keukelaar and took him into custody. He was charged with 3 counts of use of a computer to solicit a child for sexual acts, 2 counts of transmission of harmful materials to a minor, and 1 count of use of a child in sexual performance. He is currently being held on a $100,000 bond in the Bay County Jail. The investigation continues, and more charges may come in the future.
https://www.wjhg.com/2024/03/01/man-arrested-online-exploitation-children/ 

▫️FBI arrests Evansville man in child sex sting
EVANSVILLE, Ind. - An Evansville man was indicted in Illinois after the FBI says he drove to a hotel across state lines in hopes of sexually abusing a child.
According to official documents, an FBI special agent used a social media app to lure out child predators and received a message from a user, later identified as Peter Weber.
The FBI agent says he had sexually-explicit online conversations with Weber about the agent’s fake nine-year-old stepdaughter.
Weber agreed to drive to a hotel in Harrisburg, Illinois, so he could have sex with the child, who he did not know was fictitious.
https://www.14news.com/2024/03/01/fbi-arrests-evansville-man-child-sex-sting/ 

▫️18-wheeler trafficking human cargo uncovered
SAN ANTONIO - Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar revealed a disturbing incident involving an 18-wheeler allegedly trafficking human cargo through San Antonio.
Sheriff Salazar disclosed that Erika Lizbeth Saldana, 22, Esteben Escobar Pichardo, 43, and Elias Eleanor Garcia, 23, were apprehended at Currency Drive and Profit Drive in connection to the human trafficking operation.
Upon inspection, law enforcement found 12 male migrants inside the 18-wheeler, including two unaccompanied minors aged 15 and 16. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the individuals being transported.
https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/18-wheeler-trafficking-human-cargo-uncovered 

▫️Texas DPS Sabotages Big Human Trafficking Operation
The Texas Department of Public Safety released footage of their troopers sabotaging a major human smuggling operation in Webb County, TX, that was utilizing commercial vehicles to conceal illegal immigrants. Five people were charged and arrested for human smuggling, and 36 illegal immigrants were detained and referred to U.S. Border Patrol.

▫️Newly elected Louisiana coroner Christopher Tape faces calls to resign over allegations he sexually abused seven-year-old girl while belting her for 'punishment' in 2001
A recently elected coroner in Louisiana is under pressure to step down over resurfaced allegations from 2001, when he was charged with child sexual abuse but never faced trial.
Dr. Christopher Tape is due to take office this month as St. Tammany Parish coroner after running unopposed for the role, which investigates violent crimes including sexual assaults.  
But local councilmembers are demanding his resignation over the alarming decades-old allegations that he whipped his then-girlfriend's seven-year-old daughter as 'punishment' and inappropriately touched the girl.
In 2001, Tape was charged with six counts of third-degree criminal sexual contact of a minor in New Mexico, according to court records obtained by WVUE-TV. 
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13146363/Newly-elected-Louisiana-coroner-Christopher-Tape-faces-calls-resign-allegations-sexually-abused-seven-year-old-girl-belting-punishment-2001.html 

▫️Honolulu Man Sentenced 40 Years for Grooming Minors, Child Pornography Production
A 33-year-old Honolulu resident, Daniel Michael Brito, has been sentenced to 40 years in federal prison for grooming four minor girls online to produce sex films and possessing child pornography with victims as young as four.
https://bnnbreaking.com/breaking-news/crime/honolulu-man-sentenced-40-years-for-grooming-minors-child-pornography-production 

▫️Massachusetts man sentenced for human trafficking, child rape
A Massachusetts man, previously charged with sex trafficking in Rhode Island, has been sentenced to serve two consecutive 30- to 40-year prison terms after what state prosecutors describe as lifetime of abuse and sexual exploitation of underage girls. For 61-year-old Troy Footman, the judge's ruling is a life sentence.
Alongside his most recent conviction of having sex with and pimping out a 14-year-old girl and her 15-year-old friend, exploiting the two online and at a now closed strip club in Providence, Footman has also served a 15-year federal sentence back 1998.
https://turnto10.com/news/local/massachusetts-man-to-be-sentenced-for-human-trafficking-child-rape 

▫️Former DeWitt teacher pleads guilty to sexual exploitation
DEWITT, Iowa — A former DeWitt high school teacher has been sentenced to jail after pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of a minor.
According to court records, former Central DeWitt High School teacher Cody LaKose pled guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation by a school employee on Wednesday, Feb. 21. Two additional counts of the same charges were dropped.
» https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/former-central-dewitt-teacher-pleads-guilty-sexual-exploitation/526-8552d4f2-26f1-41aa-b5df-138ad7eefacc
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/former-central-dewitt-teacher-pleads-guilty-to-sexual-exploitation/ 

▫️Survivors of Archdiocese of Baltimore Sexual Abuse as Children Only Have 3 Months Remaining to File Claims in Bankruptcy Court
Archdiocese of Baltimore bankruptcy filing has resulted in a deadline of May 31, for individuals who were sexually abused by priests or clergy to present claims
Following the release of a four year-long investigation by the Maryland Attorney General’s Office early last year, which highlighted an extensive history of childhood sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, hundreds of survivors are now coming forward to pursue financial compensation before a May 31, 2024 deadline established by a U.S. bankruptcy court.
» https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/survivors-of-archdiocese-of-baltimore-sexual-abuse-as-children-only-have-3-months-remaining-to-file-claims-in-bankruptcy/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/survivors-of-archdiocese-of-baltimore-sexual-abuse-as-children-only-have-3-months-remaining-to-file-claims-in-bankruptcy-court/ 

▫️Details of child sex crime charges against Wichita Falls pastor released
Recently filed court documents reveal more details of the allegations against a local pastor charged with sex crimes against several children.
Ronnie Allen Killingsworth, 78, of Wichita Falls, is charged with six counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact. The indictment alleged Killingsworth committed sex crimes against three different female victims under the age of 17 over the course of eleven years.
On Tuesday, February 27, 2024, officials with the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office, tasked with prosecuting the case against Killingsworth, filed a notice filled with multiple alleged bad acts or offenses they intend to introduce into evidence.
» https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/local-news/details-of-child-sex-crime-charges-against-wichita-falls-pastor-released/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/details-of-child-sex-crime-charges-against-wichita-falls-pastor-released/ 

▫️51-Rescuing Children From Sex Trafficking Is Just The Beginning
This interview is a little different than my normal episodes which are focused on creating a better life for yourself. This one is focused on how we can help the most abused and vulnerable people in our country, the children who live in slavery. Every day. I had the honor of interviewing TJ Morris who founded Kaleb House. TJ told me that 17,000 kids go missing every month in the United States! Everyone needs to know what TJ is doing and we can all help.

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️JSO searching for victims after man arrested for sexual battery
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is searching for other potential victims after a man was arrested on sexual battery charges in February.
Mijhael Williams, 39, was arrested after police received information regarding a sexual battery that had occurred in the 2400 block of Dunn Avenue in November.
After a further investigation, detectives determined Williams was also involved with another sexual battery that had occurred at the same location.
Police located and arrested Williams on charges of sexual battery and false imprisonment on Feb. 9.
Now, investigators are working to identify any other victims. Williams is being held on no bond and is set to be in Duval County court on March 12 at 9 a.m.
Anyone who believes they have information to assist in the investigation is asked to contact JSO's Special Assault Unit at (904) 630-2168 or email JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org.
» https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/crime/jacksonville-police-searching-for-more-victims-after-man-arrested-on-sexual-battery-charges-mijhael-levelle-williams-dunn-avenue/77-a2ab9e33-4f13-4314-94dd-751f6eff6ae7 
»

▫️Wanted: Hall investigators searching for additional suspects from undercover sting (Operation Good Shepard)
Investigators with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) are looking for two additional suspects in connection with the agency’s Operation Good Shepherd undercover sting.
Richard Gearin Hall, 38, of Monroe, and Kevin Frank Welborn, 44, of Hartwell, were identified as suspects in the first phase of the undercover operation, which took place on January 12 and 13, 2024 in Hall County. Investigators identified the two men in the early stages of the investigation, but the two have eluded arrest.
The warrant for Hall is for a felony count of sexual exploitation of a minor after he had voice and text conversations referencing a meeting for drug use and sexual relations with someone he believed to be a child under the age of 16.
Welborn’s warrant is for one felony count of sexual exploitation of a minor after he used an electronic device to arrange a meeting for the purpose of having sex with someone he believed to be a child under the age of 16.
To date, HCSO investigators, along with members of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force have arrested a total of 21 suspects in two phases of Operation Good Shepherd.”
» https://www.wsbtv.com/video/local-video/2-more-wanted-undercover-sex-sting-that-led-16-arrests-hall-county/352a2c3d-51c8-41a2-ac20-10d18bcf617b/   (VIDEO)
» https://accesswdun.com/article/2024/3/1230589/hall-county-investigators-searching-for-2-suspects-in-operation-good-shepard-sting
» https://www.mainstreetnews.com/braselton/public_safety/hall-investigators-searching-for-additional-suspects-from-undercover-sting/article_e6f87958-d81c-11ee-8d19-0f95e55d9422.html
» https://wgtjradio.com/lookouts-for-two-more-sex-sting-fugitives/ 

▫️Wanted: Scott City, Mo. woman wanted for alleged child sex crimes
SCOTT CITY, Mo. - Police are searching for a woman from Scott City, Missouri in connection with a child sex crimes investigation.
According to the Scott City Police Department, a warrant has been issued for Taylor Mansker. She is charged with statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy - deviate sexual intercourse with a person less that 12 years of age. This is a no bond warrant. ‘
https://www.kfvs12.com/2024/03/02/scott-city-mo-woman-wanted-alleged-child-sex-crimes/ 

▫️(UPDATE) U.S. Marshals arrest man in Winnsboro in connection with child sexual abuse
LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C.  - A man wanted by the Lexington Police Department (LPD) for sexual crimes involving a child was arrested on Feb. 21, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
Taz Michael Johnson, 27, was arrested at a room he was renting at the Winnsboro Motor Inn motel. Johnson was wanted by the LPD for sexual exploitation of a minor, criminal solicitation of a child and two counts of unlawful dissemination of obscene material to a child, according to police officials.
The Marshals Service said Johnson was a prior sexual offender, having been arrested and prosecuted in 2019 for sexual misconduct with a minor and disseminating obscene material to a child.
https://www.wistv.com/2024/03/02/man-arrested-winnsboro-connection-with-child-sexual-abuse/  (VIDEO)  

▫️U.S. Marshals Help Elkton Police Department Recover Critically Missing Teen
Baltimore, MD – The U.S. Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, District of Maryland, and Elkton Police Department (MD) collaborated with the Deputy U.S. Marshals in the Northern District of Illinois to recover a critically missing juvenile in Countryside, IL. In this case, the 15-year-old, Guatemalan female was placed with a sponsor in Elkton, MD, before she went missing in November of 2023.
During the investigation, local detectives from the Elkton Police Department uncovered information indicating the teen had left Maryland and traveled to Illinois, where she was suspected to be in the presence of criminal associates. Due to the interstate travel and risk factors associated with the case, the Elkton Police Department sought the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service.
The lead detective collaborated with Deputy U.S. Marshals in Baltimore and Chicago to carry out the interstate investigation, which led to the female juvenile being recovered on Thursday afternoon. 
“Far too many children fall victim to the plight of exploitation and human trafficking,” stated acting U.S. Marshal Mathew Silverman. We created our Silver Shield Unit here in the District of Maryland to help protect the most vulnerable members of our population. This recovery reflects the true strength of our public safety partnership.”
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/us-marshals-help-elkton-police-department-recover-critically-missing-teen 

▫️Man jailed in underage sex sting
A 46-year-old South Lake Tahoe man was ordered Tuesday to spend 60 days in jail as a condition of his probation for soliciting a minor for sex and felony attempted child abuse.
Brit Oern Hall received two years probation on a 2-5-year prison sentence after he was arrested in a sex sting conducted July 7-8, 2022, at Stateline.
He also received a suspended 19-48 month sentence and was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
https://www.recordcourier.com/news/2024/mar/02/man-jailed-in-underage-sex-sting/ 

▫️Dickinson man charged with human trafficking and dealing drugs
BISMARCK, N.D. - Burleigh County prosecutors charged a Dickinson man with human trafficking and dealing meth.
Police say Michael McKeen forced a woman into prostitution to support him financially.
Officers arrested McKeen at a Bismarck hotel where they found the woman and five pounds of meth.
https://www.kfyrtv.com/2024/03/01/dickinson-man-charged-with-human-trafficking-dealing-drugs/ 

▫️Sex Predator arrested by LAX airport police

▫️New York Man sentenced for sexual abuse and production of child pornography
TULSA, Okla. – U.S. District Judge John D. Russell, sentenced Carlos Caraballo, 28, of Bellport, New York, to 324 months of imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision for Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country and Production of Child Pornography. Upon his release, Caraballo will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, in 2021, Caraballo met a 13-year-old minor victim in a chat room. After conversing with the child long-distance via computer and phone, Caraballo drove from New York to Oklahoma. While he was in Oklahoma, Caraballo engaged in sexual acts with the minor and took sexually explicit photos of the minor.
The minor is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Caraballo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vani Singhal prosecuted the case.
https://newstalkkzrg.com/2024/03/02/new-york-man-sentenced-for-sexual-abuse-and-production-of-child-pornography/ 

▫️Ephrata Man Trapped by Human Trafficking Sting, Jailed for Attempting to Pay for Sex with a Minor
LANCASTER, PA — Grzegorz Marzec, a 45-year-old man from Ephrata, was sentenced to 11-23 months in prison on Wednesday after he was caught attempting to pay for sex with a minor. The arrest was the result of an elaborate sting operation conducted by the Lancaster County Human Trafficking Task Force.
Marzec, a resident of the 100 block of Ridge Ave, admitted guilt to charges that he agreed to pay $100 for sex and solicited nude photos and videos from an undercover detective posing as a 13-year-old girl.
“This was not a spur-of-the-moment event for the defendant,” said Assistant District Attorney Fritz Haverstick. “It was measured. He was fully aware of what he was doing.”
Marzec pled guilty to attempted statutory sexual assault (11 years older), soliciting photographs/film depicting sex acts from a child, attempt to patronize a victim of sexual servitude, and criminal use of a communication facility.
https://www.mychesco.com/a/news/regional/ephrata-man-trapped-by-human-trafficking-sting-jailed-for-attempting-to-pay-for-sex-with-a-minor/ 

▫️Lycoming County man, facing hundreds of sex offenses, is charged anew with rape
A Lycoming County man awaiting trial on hundreds of sex assault charges saw a few more added on Friday at a district court in Jersey Shore.
State police at Montoursville charged Timothy Darren Stroud Sr., 55, with an additional count of rape and nearly 20 more sexual offenses, court filings show.
In February 2023, state police arrested Stroud on more than 1,000 sex offenses, including more than 100 counts of child rape. At the time, investigators said Stroud assaulted five victims between 1992 and 2018.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/lycoming-county-man-facing-hundreds-of-sex-offenses-is-charged-anew-with-rape/ar-BB1jewoM 

▫️Documents show high school coach's felony sex crime charges involve child under 15
McDowell High School volleyball coach and school counselor Jessica Finley resigned from her job days ago as news rippled through the community that she was charged with two felonies involving the commission of a sex act with a student and statutory sex offense with a child under the age of 15. 
WHKY's Ralph Mangum anchors and reports on the arrest of a former McDowell County High School guidance counselor and volleyball coach on sex offense charges. Rob Eastwood has the details as a driver in Iredell County attempted to avoid a license checkpoint, but was arrested and charged with drug and firearms offenses.
» https://wlos.com/news/local/mcdowell-high-school-volleyball-coach-jessica-patrick-finley-guidance-counselor-charged-felony-sex-crime-minor-under-age-15-years-worked-school-for-years  (VIDEO+PHOTOS) 
»

▫️Former president of Pennsylvania softball league sentenced on child sex crimes
LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. – The former president of South Central PA Softball pleaded guilty Thursday to charges of sex crimes against children, according to the Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office.
Jeffrey Tierno Jr., 34, of Dover, pleaded guilty to his charges of solicitation of sexual abuse of children, unlawful contact with a minor, criminal use of a communication facility, and corruption of minors, court documents show.
» https://news.yahoo.com/news/former-president-pennsylvania-softball-league-202058510.html  (VIDEO)
» https://www.abc27.com/local-news/former-president-of-pennsylvania-softball-league-sentenced-on-child-sex-crimes/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Montgomery Co. elementary school teacher pleads guilty to sexual abuse of students after being granted new trial
A former Montgomery County, Maryland, public school teacher pleaded guilty Friday to multiple counts of sexual abuse against children after his 2017 conviction was vacated.
In a news release, prosecutors said 57-year-old John Vigna pleaded guilty to one count of child sexual abuse and three counts of sexual abuse of a minor against a number of students at Cloverly Elementary School in Silver Spring.
https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/sao/mediacenter/pressreleases.html
» https://wtop.com/montgomery-county/2024/03/former-montgomery-co-elementary-school-teacher-pleads-guilty-to-sexual-abuse-of-students-after-being-granted-new-trial/ 

▫️Ex-Teacher at Brewster Elementary Receives Prison Sentence in Operation Net Nanny Sting
Former Brewster Elementary School teacher, Theodore Edward Dodge, has been sentenced to nearly five years in state prison following his arrest in the Operation Net Nanny child sex abuse sting. This operation, aimed at catching individuals seeking to exploit children sexually, ensnared Dodge among others when he attempted to meet with an undercover officer posing as a minor.
Operation Net Nanny, a highly coordinated effort by Washington State Patrol, targeted individuals using the internet to initiate sexual encounters with minors. Theodore Edward Dodge, a 53-year-old former fourth-grade teacher, fell into the trap when he responded to an undercover officer's online persona. Mistaking the officer for a 13-year-old girl, Dodge expressed intent to engage in sexual activities and drove six hours to meet her, only to be apprehended by law enforcement.
https://bnnbreaking.com/breaking-news/crime/ex-teacher-at-brewster-elementary-receives-prison-sentence-in-operation-net-nanny-sting  

▫️Christchurch GirlsDoPorn pornographer Matthew Wolfe shamed by victims in US court
A Christchurch man is facing life in a United States prison after he helped his childhood friend trick scores of women into becoming porn stars.
Matthew Isaac Wolfe has been confronted by 11 victims of the “horrible, vindictive, heartless” scheme he was part of.
His sentencing in the United States District Court has been split across two dates, with the women facing Wolfe to read their victim impact statements, giving powerful insights into the damage - and almost deaths - he caused.
» https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/christchurch-girlsdoporn-pornographer-matthew-wolfe-shamed-by-victims-in-us-court/Y5NROAWU5VBRLI7SCVFYNEAFSI/
» https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/christchurch-girlsdoporn-pornographer-matthew-wolfe-shamed-by-victims-in-us-court/ 

▫️Polygamous Mormon Sect Is Actually a Sex Trafficking Cult: Lawsuit
A polygamous religious community in Utah is actually a criminal cult that trafficked young girls and forced them into early marriages that were sometimes incestuous, a new lawsuit alleges.
Ten women who left or escaped the alleged sect led by Paul Elden Kingston on Wednesday filed a federal complaint against Kingston, thirteen of his family members, and several other members. The complaint, which is nearly 140 pages long, also names as defendants dozens of businesses and entities ranging from restaurants, grocery stores, the Mormon fundamentalist denomination Latter Day Church of Christ, and an allegedly fake “bank” operated by the cult.
The complaint alleges that the cult actively practices sex trafficking, sexual abuse, child abuse, and forced labor. In some cases, Kingston forced girls to marry men they were related to and suffer repeated domestic abuse, the lawsuit claims.
» https://dnyuz.com/2024/03/02/polygamous-mormon-sect-is-actually-a-sex-trafficking-cult-lawsuit/
» https://news.yahoo.com/news/polygamous-mormon-sect-actually-sex-230855951.html 

▫️Nurse arrested, suspected of sexually assaulting patient at a Riverside hospital
RIVERSIDE — A 27-year-old nurse suspected of sexually assaulting a female patient at a Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Riverside where he worked was arrested, police said Friday.
Jacob Daniel Hartman of Corona was arrested Wednesday and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on sexual assault charges, including sexual battery of an unconscious person, according to Riverside Police Department spokesman Ryan J. Railsback. He was being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.
https://www.sbsun.com/2024/03/02/nurse-arrested-suspected-of-sexually-assaulting-patient-at-a-riverside-hospital/ 

▫️Crosby man sentenced to life in prison for repeated sexual abuse of 13-year-old child
HOUSTON - A Crosby man who repeatedly sexually assaulted a 13-year-old child beginning in 2017 was sentenced to life in prison by a Harris County jury, District Attorney Kim Ogg announced.
Roger Allan Smith, 55, was convicted of continuous sexual assault of a child for repeatedly abusing a child who was part of his extended family while other family members were out of the home or asleep.
» https://www.fox26houston.com/news/crosby-man-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-for-repeated-sexual-abuse-of-13-year-old-child
» https://www.harriscountyda.com/crosby_child_molester_sentenced_to_life_in_prison_without_parole 

▫️In today's episode, I'm honored to speak to human trafficking advocate, keynote speaker, survivor leader, activist, global survivor affairs expert, and founder of A Lady with Lilies Society, Brenna Wallace.
A Lady with Lilies Society is a non-profit organization that educates and empowers all to combat human trafficking, Brenna has been leading and collaborating with various stakeholders, partners, and donors to raise awareness and funds for this urgent cause. As an advocate, she uses her personal experience and knowledge to inspire and mentor others who have been affected by this trafficking. Her mission is to end human trafficking and to create a world where everyone is free, safe, and respected. Watch until the end to find out how she became an advocate.

▫️Local police chief works to end sex trafficking
Nevada City Police Chief Dan Foss established his own non-profit organization, the OLIVE Organization which stands for Overcoming Limitations Through Intervention and Empowerment, started in 2015. OLIVE provides safety and security to victims of human trafficking. It is the only safe house in the county that focuses on victims of sex trafficking.
https://www.theunion.com/news/local-police-chief-works-to-end-sex-trafficking/article_b035ab7a-d812-11ee-936f-5ff5b321bd5e.html 

▫️VIDEO: Former NFL player Tim Tebow set to testify before House Committee on child sexual abuse
Fox News Digital spoke with humanitarian and former sports star Tim Tebow, founder and chairman of the Tim Tebow Foundation, about his important campaign to find and rescue children who have been trafficked or who are living in peril.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/former-nfl-player-tim-tebow-set-testify-before-house-committee-child-sexual-abuse-outkick-exclusive 

▫️Confronting Human Trafficking: Houston Hospitals Band Together
Kimberly Williams is no stranger to human trafficking. She learned the hard realities of its victims nearly a decade ago while living in Charlotte, N.C., after attending a conference on the subject through her church.
“Texas Children’s Hospital is just across the hall from us — and we asked, ‘How do we talk across the hall about this minor who we believe may be a victim,’” Williams says.
https://www.aha.org/hospitals-against-violence/human-trafficking/confronting-human-trafficking-houston-hospitals-band-together 
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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Mother, friend fight to save child from kidnapper during hiking trip at Ga. state park
MONROE COUNTY, Ga. — New information has been released in connection to the arrest of a woman who officials say tried to kidnap a child at a Georgia state park.
Last week, Kara Christopher was arrested and charged with the attempted kidnapping of a child inside High Falls State Park.
» https://www.41nbc.com/update-woman-arrested-connection-reported-kidnapping-attempt-high-falls-state-park/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/report-mother-friend-fight-save-child-kidnapper-during-hiking-trip-ga-state-park/2H3YUDLTJJCKBDMAAB6PCQ3ZMU/
» https://bnnbreaking.com/breaking-news/crime/attempted-child-kidnapping-at-georgia-state-park-ends-in-arrest-of-kara-christopher 

▫️Arrest Made in Attempted Kidnapping of Young Child in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Police Department’s Olympic Division has successfully apprehended a suspect in connection with an attempted kidnapping incident. On February 25, around 12:40 p.m., officers were called to the 600 block of South Virgil Avenue following reports of a kidnapping. The suspect, later identified as Vanessa Yara Pineda, 27, of Los Angeles, was reported to have forcibly taken a 4-year-old boy from the location.
Pineda has been charged with kidnapping (207(A) PC) and is currently held on a $1,250,000.00 bail. The Los Angeles Police Department continues to investigate the incident and encourages anyone with further information to come forward.
https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2024/03/03/arrest-made-in-attempted-kidnapping-of-young-child-in-los-angeles/ 

▫️Goshen man caught on Bikers Against Predators video, sentenced in Elkhart County Court
48-year-old Shawn Ensign of Goshen was charged by plea agreement on a charge of Child Solicitation.
A probable cause affidavit says a man associated with Bikers Against Predators contacted Goshen police on May 4 to report that Ensign had attempted to meet with what he believed was a 14-year-old girl at the Goshen Dunkin Donuts, though the person he had been speaking to and arranging to meet was actually an adult living in California.
According to The Goshen News, officers were given a cell phone containing the two’s conversation, some of which included sexual content, affirmations to the teen that her age was permissible to Ensign and discussions about meeting.
https://www.953mnc.com/2024/03/04/goshen-man-caught-on-bikers-against-predators-video-sentenced-in-elkhart-county-court/ 

▫️Two Individuals Sentenced to Prison on Two Child Exploitation Cases
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Eduardo Luis Marrero Casanova, 53, a religious leader in Cayey, was sentenced on February 27, 2024, by Chief Judge Raul M. Arias Marxuach, to 240 months of imprisonment for two counts of production of child pornography.
According to court documents, from December 2022, through January 25, 2023, Marrero Casanova used a cellular phone, as well as internet instant messaging services, to knowingly persuade, induce, entice, and coerce two fifteen-year-old male minors to engage in sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense, which includes the production of child pornography as defined in Title 18, United States Code. Also, Marrero Casanova did knowingly employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor, and attempted to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing any visual depiction of such conduct.
In a separate case, Alexander Joel Rivera-Santos, from Salinas, PR, was sentenced by Senior Judge Francisco A. Besosa on February 9, 2024, to 51 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of child exploitation material, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B).
https://www.justice.gov/usao-pr/pr/two-individuals-sentenced-prison-two-child-exploitation-cases 

▫️Missouri authorities jail owners of Christian boarding school on kidnapping charges
Faith-based boarding schools found a welcoming home in Missouri because of a law that allowed them to operate without state oversight. But many former students spoke out about the abuse they say they endured at the schools.
The owners of a secluded southeast Missouri Christian boarding school are behind bars after authorities served arrest warrants Friday night at their facility. Larry and Carmen Musgrave are being held in the Wayne County Jail in Greenville, Missouri, without bond. They are charged with first-degree kidnapping involving a former student. Authorities, who interviewed all the boys at the school Friday night, took Larry Musgrave Jr., 57, into custody at the ABM Ministries campus near Piedmont, according to a news release issued late Saturday afternoon by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. And Carmen Musgrave, 64, was taken into custody hours later, the release said.
» https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article286162626.html
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/missouri-authorities-jail-owners-of-christian-boarding-school-on-kidnapping-charges/ 

▫️How US cops zeroed in on Gujarat's Dirty Harry and his trafficking racket
Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel aka Dirty Harry was arrested in a human trafficking case involving four Gujaratis, who died while being illicitly transported to US
The Chicago police on February 21 apprehended Harshkumar Ramanlal Patel, infamously known as ‘Dirty Harry’, in connection with a disturbing human trafficking case involving four individuals from Dingucha village near Mehsana in Gujarat, who died in a blizzard while being illicitly transported to the US via Canada in January 19, 2022.
US police investigations showed that the Indian nationals smuggled by the Gujarat human smuggling group, work in a chain of restaurants in Chicago. The restaurants were identified and are owned by a man from India who has also been identified, as per the court documents.
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-us-cops-zeroed-in-on-gujarat-man-behind-trafficking-racket-101709543138027.html 

▫️Abilene's human trafficking case goes to trial
Abilene sits around 500 miles from the Mexican border at McAllen, Texas, where an alleged human-trafficking ring crossed into the United States in January 2021. The owner of Fun Noodle Restaurant in Abilene allegedly paid for one of these individuals who crossed to work in his restaurant without pay and without the ability to leave. The alleged ringleader of this human-trafficking ring will be in court next week for a jury trial in the 350th District Court.
According to court documents, Gerardo Quijada-Soto allegedly smuggled Javier Rodriguez-Castro from Honduras to the United States, through Mexico, along with 12 other individuals. They initially crossed the border January 8, 2021.
https://www.reporternews.com/story/news/crime/2024/03/04/abilenes-human-trafficking-case-goes-trial-texas-taylor-county-courthouse-crime-immigration-status/72440701007/ 

▫️Florida ranks third in nation for human trafficking, report says
MIAMI — According to DCF's "Children Report," out of the nearly 2,100 cases of human trafficking reported in Florida in 2023, 1,627 of those cases involved children.
Broward County received 164 reports of human trafficking. In Miami, a total of 222 cases were reported. 
For many people, these numbers are becoming too much to bear. 
Gloria Martinez, the executive director of non-profits Take Back the Girls and Tree of Life Parenting Center, is working on a new project addressing these trafficked children in hopes to spread the word about an issue happening right under the noses of South Floridians.
https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/florida-ranks-third-in-nation-for-human-trafficking-report-says/ 

▫️Cult Leader Sentenced to Life Without Parole
Accused cult leader Eligio Bishop, known as “Nature Boy,” received a life sentence without parole after being found guilty on several charges.
As reported by WSB-TV, a jury on Friday found Bishop guilty of rape, false imprisonment and three counts of prohibition on nude or sexually explicit electronic transmissions.
Bishop, 40, was arrested in April 2022 after he was accused of being the alleged leader of a cult known as the “Carbon Nation” group. A former member, who identified herself as his girlfriend, told police he posted revenge porn “because she left him.” She also told law enforcement that she’d joined a “sex cult” in which her boyfriend is the leader.”
» https://www.complex.com/life/a/brad-callas/accused-cult-leader-nature-boy-sentenced-to-life
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/sentenced-to-life-without-parole/
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/rape-case-accused-cult-leader-nature-boy-now-jurys-hands/FLN45E4AMBBBDPH6PFGPGOKRMI/ 

▫️Maryland State Boychoir Director, Frank T. Cimino Jr., Resigns Amid Allegations of Past Child Sex Abuse
Frank T. Cimino Jr., the founder and director of the Maryland State Boychoir, has resigned following his identification as one of the 156 Catholic Church staff named in a Maryland Attorney General’s Office report on child sex abuse in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Cimino, 75, founded the Maryland State Boychoir 36 years ago and served as its president and director emeritus. The allegations against him date back to the 1970s when he was fired from his job as minister of music at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Northeast Baltimore after a man reported being sexually abused by him as a choirboy.
» https://abuseguardian.legalexaminer.com/legal/maryland-state-boychoir-director-frank-t-cimino-jr-sexual-abuse-lawyer/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/maryland-state-boychoir-director-frank-t-cimino-jr-resigns-amid-allegations-of-past-child-sex-abuse/ 

▫️Convicted pedophile who allegedly confessed to JonBenét murder seen following early prison release
A convicted pedophile and former suspect in the murder of 6-year-old beauty queen JonBenét Ramsey has been seen in public for the first time since his early prison release on child pornography charges.
Gary Oliva, who allegedly confessed to the 1996 killing of JonBenét Ramsey, was released from the Arkansas Valley Correction Facility in Ordway, Colo. on Jan. 31 after serving less than eight years of a 10-year sentence.
» https://nypost.com/2024/03/02/us-news/convicted-pedophile-who-confessed-to-jonbenet-murder-seen-following-jailtime/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.the-sun.com/news/10536514/jonbenet-ramsey-killer-gary-oliva-released-prison/  (VIDEO) 

▫️ERO Boston removes Brazilian fugitive wanted for child rape | ICE
BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston removed a Brazilian national convicted of raping a child in his home country. Deportation officers from ERO Boston removed Edimir Gustavo Eckelberg, 62, from the United States to Brazil Jan. 26. Eckelberg had been sought by Brazilian law enforcement authorities since his conviction for rape of a vulnerable child in May 2023. 
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-removes-brazilian-fugitive-wanted-child-rape 

▫️ERO Boston removes fugitive wanted for rape conviction in Brazil | ICE
BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston removed a Brazilian fugitive from the United States Jan. 26. Francisco Xavier Martins, 43, convicted of rape in Brazil, unlawfully entered the United States in May 2018 to avoid serving his prison sentence. Brazilian authorities have been seeking his custody since March 2019, and deportation officers from ERO Boston arrested him Dec. 5, 2023, in Malden.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-removes-fugitive-wanted-rape-conviction-brazil 

▫️Clergy sex abuse survivors vote on $200 million settlement offer from Diocese of Rockville Centre
Survivors of clergy sex abuse in the Roman Catholic Church on Long Island will vote on a “final” proposed $200 million settlement the church is offering, though attorneys for survivors say they expect it to be rejected.
That could mean about 600 abuse cases return to state civil court, where the attorneys contend the settlements could be far higher. Survivors started receiving ballots in the mail this week, with a deadline to submit them by March 22.
» https://www.newsday.com/long-island/religion/clergy-sex-abuse-victims-settlement-vote-diocese-of-rockville-centre-ni1spbug
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/clergy-sex-abuse-survivors-vote/ 

▫️Florida passes bill to compensate victims of decades-old reform school abuse
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - Restitution for decades of abuse at two now-shuttered reform schools where boys were beaten, raped and killed is now in the hands of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis after the Senate unanimously passed a bill Monday to set aside $20 million for victims.
The bill creates a process for former inmates at the Dozier School for Boys in Marianna and the Florida School for Boys at Okeechobee to make claims over physical, mental or sexual abuse between 1940 and 1975. It's estimated that victims will receive about $50,000 each.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13155411/Florida-passes-bill-compensate-victims-decades-old-reform-school-abuse.html 

▫️North Country leaders encourage people to take action against human trafficking in forum
https://www.wwnytv.com/video/2024/03/03/north-country-leaders-encourage-people-take-action-against-human-trafficking-forum/    (VIDEO) 
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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️‘Operation March Sadness:’ Polk sheriff to discuss undercover human trafficking stings, 13 rescued
POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is expected to hold a news conference on Tuesday morning to discuss the results of an undercover human trafficking case, according to the sheriff’s office.
In all, 228 suspects were arrested during the investigation — 21 of whom were in the country illegally — and 13 human trafficking victims were identified, the release says.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is poised to reveal details of a significant human trafficking investigation, known as 'Operation March Sadness 2024,' during a press conference scheduled for Tuesday morning. This extensive eight-day undercover operation has led to the arrest of 228 individuals, including coaches, military servicemembers, and a school teacher, for activities related to prostitution, highlighting a broader issue within the community.
The operation, which was aimed at cracking down on human trafficking and related activities, saw the Polk County Sheriff's Office working tirelessly to identify and apprehend individuals involved in these illicit practices. Notably, among those arrested were 21 individuals who were in the country illegally, underscoring the complex nature of the investigation. Furthermore, the operation successfully identified 13 victims of human trafficking, offering them a crucial lifeline and the possibility of a new start away from exploitation.
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» https://www.wfla.com/news/polk-county/228-arrested-in-polk-county-human-trafficking-investigation-sheriff-says/   (VIDEO)
» https://bnnbreaking.com/politics/polk-countys-operation-march-sadness-2024-nets-228-uncovers-human-trafficking-ring
» https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2024/03/04/operation-march-sadness-polk-sheriff-to-discuss-undercover-human-trafficking-stings/
» https://www.wftv.com/news/local/nearly-230-arrested-13-human-trafficking-victims-identified-polk-county-sheriff-says/C6KKVKM4WFDB5MF4QD2ASBNB2U/
 

▫️Dozens of sex offenders arrested in Benton County
A dozens different agencies in Benton County spent three days visiting the homes of registered sex offenders.
»

▫️DPS announces results from human trafficking operations, 52 trafficking victims, incl nine children rescued
AUSTIN - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the results of several human trafficking mitigation and rescue operations conducted during January 2024, which is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
During that month alone, Special Agents from DPS’ Criminal Investigations Division (CID), along with local and federal partners, conducted 12 operations focused on human trafficking. These operations resulted in the rescue of 52 trafficking victims, including nine children.
DPS Special Agents participated in a multi-agency operation hosted by TABC in Houston, designed to target juvenile victims of human trafficking by soliciting online advertisements seeking payment for sexual activity. During the operation, 11 individuals were recovered with four making outcries as victims of human trafficking and/or sexual assault.
DPS Special Agents conducted a victim recovery operation along with a demand reduction operation in conjunction with additional agencies in Houston. The operation was designed to target juvenile victims by soliciting online advertisements seeking payment for sexual activity. During the multi-day joint operation, a total of 14 human trafficking victims were recovered. Four of the victims were confirmed juveniles. Three suspected male traffickers were also arrested, and eight males were arrested for solicitation of prostitution.
» https://news4sanantonio.com/news/nation-world/texas-dps-rescues-52-human-trafficking-victims-nine-are-children-human-trafficking-dps-texas-victims-rescue-san-antonio-steven-mccraw-sex
» https://www.oaoa.com/local-news/dps-announces-results-from-human-trafficking-operations/
» https://www.dps.texas.gov/news/dps-announces-results-human-trafficking-operations
» http://www.irvingweekly.com/s/7336/Juvenile-Victim-Involved-in-Sex-Trafficking-Recovered-in-Dallas.php 

▫️Operation Janus: Abilene man among dozens arrested in statewide child exploitation operation
ABILENE, Texas — A 20-year-old Abilene man, Adrian Alvarez Dominguez, was among dozens arrested in a multi-agency operation across Texas, aimed at rescuing children from online sexual exploitation.
Operation Janus resulted in the rescue of 13 children from sexual abuse and more than 90 criminal charges filed against 47 offenders.
Investigators also seized terabytes of data and electronic devices used during the commission of these crimes. The evidence is currently being forensically examined and may lead to the investigation of other offenders.
» https://www.mytexasdaily.com/north-texas/abilene-man-among-dozens-arrested-in-statewide-child-exploitation-operation/article_de920d3a-15b4-5437-bcd7-560aa3bfe816.html
» https://www.myfoxzone.com/article/news/local/abilene/abilene-man-among-47-arrested-online-sexual-exploitation/504-b97245cc-aeee-4ee5-aaf4-f01ed35d20a9 

▫️8 men arrested during undercover prostitution bust in L.A. County
Authorities in Claremont arrested eight men after conducting an undercover prostitution sting at a local motel. 
According to a release from the Claremont Police Department, a coalition of local agencies teamed up with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation to conduct the raid Friday at the Motel 6 on Indian Hill Boulevard near the 10 Freeway. 
https://ktla.com/news/local-news/8-men-arrested-during-undercover-prostitution-bust-in-l-a-county/ 

▫️Teen's secret signal for help leads to hotel rescue and alleged predator arrest in Davis County
BOUNTIFUL — A Davis County teen is home safe and a man is in jail after police believe the man traveled from California upon meeting the boy online, causing the 14-year-old to send a secret signal for help to his family.
That signal, plus some other steps the teen took, led police to a West Bountiful hotel room Sunday to make that rescue. It also led to the arrest of 36-year-old Austin David Arnold and the questioning of three other adult men.
“This individual traveled here with the intent to harm a child,” said Stephanie Dinsmore with the Davis County Sheriff’s Office. At first, the parents reported the 14-year-old as a possible runaway, Dinsmore explained, when he didn’t return home Sunday evening.
However, according to the affidavit of probable cause, the boy’s parents noticed he had changed his voicemail when they tried calling.
Dinsmore said that was a red flag for the family.
https://ksltv.com/628014/teens-secret-signal-for-help-leads-to-hotel-rescue-and-alleged-predator-arrest-in-davis-county/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Scott City Police Seek Woman Charged with Child Sexual Abuse, Community Asked to Assist
Scott City Police Department is currently on the lookout for Taylor Mansker, charged with grave allegations of sexually abusing a child under 12. A no-bond warrant for her arrest emphasizes the severity of the charges, including statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy/deviate sexual intercourse. The law enforcement's appeal for public assistance through a Facebook announcement underscores the urgency in locating Mansker, who is also reported to be six months pregnant.
https://bnnbreaking.com/world/us/scott-city-police-seek-woman-charged-with-child-sexual-abuse-community-asked-to-assist 

▫️3 men arrested in online child sex sting in Floyd County
FLOYD COUNTY, Ga. — Three men were arrested in Floyd County, Georgia recently in an online sex sting.
The men made contact online with someone they thought was a child younger than 16 and offered to pay them for sex acts. They then traveled to a location in Floyd County to meet the child for what would have been child molestation.
Deputies said Tile McGill, 32, is charged with human trafficking, aggravated child molestation, electronic enticement attempt, obscene internet contact, and obstruction.
Deputies said when he was being arrested, McGill disobeyed orders and tried to run.
Quintavius Davian Marques Dean, 28, is charged with human trafficking and aggravated child molestation.
Christopher Jacob Theobald, 36, is charged with human trafficking, electronic enticement, and aggravated child molestation.
https://www.wsbtv.com/news/georgia/3-men-arrested-online-child-sex-sting-floyd-county/UISEB5OXXZFV3N47644ZKCO36Q/ 

▫️Former Laurel Schools employee arraigned on charges related to child sexual abuse
LONDON — A former employee of Laurel County School District is facing multiple charges of sexual offenses involving a minor.
William Trevor Goodson, 31, of London, was arrested Friday on charges of first-degree sexual abuse, procuring or promoting use of minor by electronic means, first-degree unlawful transaction with a minor (illegal sex act under 18 years of age), and use of minor (under 18) in a sexual performance.
https://www.sentinel-echo.com/news/former-laurel-schools-employee-arraigned-on-charges-related-to-child-sexual-abuse/article_f40eb468-da74-11ee-83c3-034e35d5bba6.html 

▫️Women falsely accuse mayor of child trafficking, allegedly demand $1M to stop harassment
GOSHEN, Utah — Two women are facing criminal charges after allegedly harassing the Goshen town mayor by falsely claiming he was involved in child human trafficking, according to court documents.
The two women reportedly demanded a large sum of money — $1 million — from the mayor and another victim in order for them to stop the harassment.
Amanda Kaye Bachman, 51, of Goshen, and Beth Marilyn Marie Schardine, 32, of Spanish Fork, were each charged with two counts of theft by extortion (a second-degree felony), one count of bribery to influence official or political actions (a second-degree felony), one count of criminal defamation (a class B misdemeanor) and one count of electronic communication harassment (a class A misdemeanor).
The two women reportedly published letters and messages on social media “on many occasions,” claiming that their victims were trafficking children, according to court documents. Documents also say the women put up posters around Goshen that say the town is a “child trafficking area.”
https://www.yahoo.com/news/women-falsely-accuse-mayor-child-051758418.html 

▫️Deferred probation for doctor seeking sex with minor
Although standing before Jefferson County 252nd District Court Judge Raquel West to admit guilt in attempting to solicit a child for sex, Dr. Sadiq Ali was allowed to leave Feb. 22 without a requirement for inclusion on the Texas Sex Offender Registry – and the whole matter won’t even show up on criminal background checks as long as the rheumatologist completes three years of deferred probation and pays a $1,500 fine, the judge agreed.
At a Human Trafficking Awareness event in January, prosecutor Tatiana Zelezniak said she was unaware of the disposition of the cases of 21 men arrested in an October 2020 child and adult prostitution sex sting undertaken by the district attorney’s office and the Beaumont Police Department, including that of Ali. According to Zelezniak, persons attempting to purchase children for sex were not going to be offered deals for probation.
https://www.theexaminer.com/crime/deferred-probation-doctor-seeking-sex-minor 

▫️Carmel man faces 18 counts in child exploitation case
HAMILTON COUNTY, Ind. – Alex Golden referred to himself as a “freak” and a “pedo” on a messaging app.
Now, Golden, a 20-year-old Carmel man, faces more than a dozen charges following an investigation into sexual abuse videos involving children.
According to court documents, the investigation that led to the arrest of Golden began in October 2023. He’s now charged with five counts of child exploitation (a level 4 felony) and 13 counts of possession of child pornography (a level 5 felony).
https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/carmel-man-faces-18-counts-in-child-exploitation-case/ 

▫️Lincoln man charged with child enticement after investigators pose as 13-year-old girl
LINCOLN, Neb. - A Lincoln man is accused of child enticement after talking with undercover officers in Grand Island and Lincoln.
Jason Harig, 49, is charged with one count of child enticement. The charge is a class ID felony.
According to an arrest affidavit, someone reached out to a 13-year-old girl on social media on March 1. The girl was really a Grand Island police investigator.
https://www.1011now.com/2024/03/04/lincoln-man-charged-with-child-enticement-after-investigators-pose-13-year-old-girl/ 

▫️K-9 assists Grant County Sheriff’s Office with human trafficking investigation
GRANT COUNTY, Ind. — A police K-9 helped the Grant County Sheriff’s Office conduct a human trafficking investigation last week.
According to a press release, K-9 Deputy JEB found tracking devices that had been hidden on a vehicle used by victims involved in the case.
Grant County deputies ultimately arrested 59-year-old Gregory M. Marsh for his alleged role in the sex trafficking scheme. Marsh has preliminarily been charged with domestic battery, criminal confinement, voyeurism and promotion of human sexual trafficking.
» https://wowo.com/new-tool-used-in-recent-grant-county-sex-trafficking-case/
»  https://fox59.com/news/k-9-assists-grant-county-sheriffs-office-with-human-trafficking-investigation/
»  

▫️Florida Lt. Gov. Nuñez Joins Strike Force Seizing $260k Assets, 21 Felony Charges, 18 Illegal Alien Arrested
Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez joined a ride-along to support Operation Safe Highways, a multi-agency strike force targeting illegal drugs and criminal aliens.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Florida National Guard, and the Sheriff’s Offices of Escambia, Okaloosa, Walton, and Santa Rosa Counties are all participating.
The multi-agency strike force, formed by Governor Ron DeSantis, aims to prevent a wide range of crimes related to Biden’s Border Crisis, such as human trafficking, human smuggling, illegal drugs, and illegal weapons.
In addition to the ride-along, Lt. Governor Nuñez attended operational briefings, watched a K-9 demonstration, and witnessed the strike force’s efficient operations.
https://www.tampafp.com/florida-lt-gov-nunez-joins-strike-force-seizing-260k-assets-21-felony-charges-18-illegal-alien-arrested/ 

▫️Migrants discovered in stash house operation by Border Patrol agents in South Texas
LAREDO, Texas — Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents uncovered a stash house operation harboring migrants in Laredo, Texas, on Feb 23.
Around 3.30 p.m., in collaboration with Texas DPS, the agents received information about a residence near Mines Road possibly being used to shelter undocumented non-citizens. Upon arrival, they found 16 individuals living in deplorable conditions inside the dwelling.
The individuals were immediately taken into Border Patrol custody and records checks were conducted. It was revealed that all of them had illegally entered the country from Guatemala. The subjects were subsequently processed according to their individual immigration status.
https://www.mytexasdaily.com/south-texas/migrants-discovered-in-stash-house-operation-by-border-patrol-agents-in-south-texas/article_1bc21ad8-7336-5637-8cc7-b86ba57103f3.html 

▫️Authorities link another migrant stash house in Juarez to 'La Empresa' drug gang
EL PASO, Texas (Border Report) – Authorities in Juarez, Mexico, have arrested five people in connection with a raid on a suspected migrant stash house over the weekend.
The suspects were holding 25 migrants believed to be from Central and South America in a home in the Cerrada del Parque neighborhood south of El Paso’s Lower Valley. Authorities said they searched the home in response to an anonymous tip. Eight women and at least two minors were among the group of migrants, according to local news reports.
» https://www.borderreport.com/regions/mexico/authorities-link-another-migrant-stash-house-to-la-empresa/
» https://diario.mx/juarez/rescatan-a-25-cautivos-por-la-empresa-20240303-2159120.html 

▫️Manchester detective in human trafficking investigation named officer of the year
A 12-year-old girl in another state was at risk of being trafficked by her father when an investigation launched by the Manchester Police Department led to her recovery.
Detective Christopher Abele started investigating the cyber tip when a Manchester man, who was arrested and charged with 14 counts of possession of child sexual abuse images last summer, received a photo of the girl. The photo had been flagged by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, and the agency contacted Manchester police.
https://www.unionleader.com/news/crime/manchester-detective-in-human-trafficking-investigation-named-officer-of-the-year/article_bd54c81e-d749-11ee-b9bc-c7799f86644c.html 

▫️Anchorage woman sentenced to 30 years for producing child pornography
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage woman was sentenced today to 30 years in prison for her role in a conspiracy to produce child sexual abuse materials.
According to court documents, Denali Brehmer, 22, and her co-conspirator Darin Schilmiller, 25, conspired to murder Cynthia Hoffman in June 2019 while Schilmiller was residing in Indiana. While they were conspiring to commit Hoffman’s murder, they also conspired to coerce a minor victim to produce sexually explicit images, which Brehmer took and sent to Schilmiller via text message.
Brehmer and Schilmiller pleaded guilty to production of child pornography in front of the U.S. District Court in July 2023. Schilmiller is awaiting sentencing. Both defendants were sentenced by the State of Alaska to 99 years in prison for their roles in Hoffman’s murder.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ak/pr/anchorage-woman-sentenced-30-years-producing-child-pornography 

▫️DC man sentenced to 5 years in prison for trying to kidnap teen
WASHINGTON — A DC man will spend the next five years behind bars after he attempted to kidnap a 17-year-old girl from near a Metro station last year.
According to the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia, 38-year-old Donte Johnson was sentenced Friday to 60 months in prison on one count of kidnapping. 
https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/dc-man-sentenced-5-years-prison-attempting-kidnap-teen-near-metro-station/65-1120d9b5-6bf9-45b8-8602-aae0804fd9ae 

▫️Man sentenced to 170 years in prison for possession of 'horrific' child sex abuse materials
PHOENIX - Arizona man Timothy Burton McGee, 56, has been sentenced to 170 years in prison for the possession of "horrific" child sex abuse materials, the Maricopa County Attorney's Office said.
"In 2019 and 2020, the Phoenix Police Department received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a user that was downloading child sexual abuse material (CSAM)," the Maricopa County Attorney's Office (MCAO) said on March 4 in a news release.
"Many of the files contained horrific images of the sexual abuse and rape of very young children, including infants and toddlers. Each Dropbox account showed multiple logins between January 2019 and March 2020 from the defendant’s home, church, and work. On June 9, 2020, while executing a search warrant of the defendant’s residence, detectives also found the defendant’s laptop which contained an additional 1,182 CSAM files," MCAO said.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/man-sentenced-170-years-prison-232738288.html 

▫️Madeline Soto: Florida sheriff apologizes for sharing crime scene photo online

▫️Broken Arrow Police Hold Human Trafficking Awareness Forum For Parents
Broken Arrow Police held a forum Monday night to talk to parents about trafficking and internet access for kids.
They talked about what signs to look for and how to talk to kids about being online. After the presentation, parents had a lot of good questions for the investigators and counselors.
People from Broken Arrow Public Schools, Broken Arrow Police, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, The Demand Project, and the Muscogee Creek Nation all spoke Monday.
» https://www.newson6.com/story/65e696766f1ccc065261f788/broken-arrow-police-hold-human-trafficking-awareness-forum-for-parents  (VIDEO)
»

▫️DEBRIEF: Human trafficking and travel industry
A national non-profit says human trafficking is happening right here in our own backyards, hotels and airlines are often used to move victims.

▫️Fox World Travel continues mission against human trafficking
On a global scale about 27.6 million people are victims of some type of trafficking whether it be labor, exploitation, or sexual in nature

▫️Truckers Against Trafficking
Learn how truckers can play a crucial role in identifying and reporting trafficking instances on the road. Learn how truckers are making a difference and how you can help. Together, we can make a difference and save lives. Watch to learn more and get involved today!!

▫️North Country leaders encourage people to take action against human trafficking in forum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz84cMlyuhU

▫️The Wound Pros Joins Fight Against Human Trafficking, Announces $100,000 Donation
The Wound Pros, the nation's leading wound care management company, has partnered with Libertas International, a non-governmental organization dedicated to eradicating human trafficking and child exploitation. This collaboration is a testament to the company's dedication to societal impact and communal welfare, extending its healing touch beyond medical care.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/wound-pros-joins-fight-against-221900833.html 

 

▫️Raising awareness about Human Trafficking in Maine
BANGOR--Human trafficking is a topic not discussed nearly as much as other human rights issues in our country. However, the organization Courage Lives is teaming up with the Bangor First Church of the Nazarene to host a training to educate and raise awareness about human trafficking here in Maine. training event is called 'Be A Light' and its an opportunity for faith based leaders to learn ways churches can address human trafficking.
The 'Be A Light' event will take place from 10am-2pm on Saturday, March 9 at the Bangor First Church of the Nazarene on Union Street. The cost is $25 per person. Doors open at 9 a.m. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.
https://www.foxbangor.com/news/raising-awareness-about-human-trafficking-in-maine/article_2d258a94-da69-11ee-93dd-3363ec7655d5.html 

▫️Arbitrator awards $24.5 million to two women who were sex trafficked as minors at North American Motor Inns
On February 7, 2024, arbitrator, William Ricci, awarded two sex trafficking survivors, $24.5 million. The women, identified as B.H. and C.A., were sex trafficked at North American Motor Inns located at 4444 City Avenue in West Philadelphia. The lawsuit, which was filed in March 2019, stated that in January 2013 the women, who were 16 and 17 at the time, were beaten, threatened and raped at the hotel. The lawsuit says that B.H. was sex trafficked at the hotel for about two weeks and C.A. was sex trafficked at the hotel over the span of a year and on thirty different occasions.
https://cseinstitute.org/arbitrator-awards-24-5-million-to-two-women-who-were-sex-trafficked-as-minors-at-north-american-motor-inns/ 

▫️Woman says Boys and Girls Club didn't do enough to protect her
MANCHESTER, N.H. — One of the largest and most respected nonprofit organizations serving children in New Hampshire is being sued by a former member who said she was sexually abused for years.
A 22-year-old woman said she was assaulted because the Boys and Girls Club in Concord violated their own safety and reporting policies.
Joshua Adams pleaded guilty in 2019 to aggravated felonious sexual assault and is in prison. He was 27 and working at the Boys and Girls Club when, according to the lawsuit, he told Teegan Paul, then 14, that she was his favorite.
In her lawsuit, Paul said she was assaulted nearly every day on a Boys and Girls Club bus.
https://www.wmur.com/article/lawsuit-boys-and-girls-club-assault-concord/60082392 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Milwaukie Police arrest 12 in online prostitution sting
PORTLAND, Ore.  — The Milwaukie Police Department arrested 12 people during an online prostitution sting on Feb. 28, which targeted prostitutes, people purchasing sex and sex traffickers.
Two of the alleged prostitutes arrived with alleged sex traffickers. The men arrested for sex trafficking were 28-year-old Marquese Sykes of Tacoma and 25-year-old Jalen Frazier of Portland.
“[Prostitutes] were arrested upon arrival and issued a citation release for prostitution,” Mulwaukie Police said. “They were directed to on-scene support services provided by the Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office.”
» https://www.kptv.com/2024/03/05/12-arrested-milwaukie-prostitution-bust/
» https://katu.com/news/local/interagency-operation-against-human-trafficking-leads-to-12-arrests-in-milwaukie-clackamas-county
» https://www.koin.com/news/crime/milwaukie-police-arrest-12-in-online-prostitution-sting/ 

▫️Burke Co. officials arrest 8 for child sex-related crimes in state, national investigations
MORGANTON, N.C.  - The Burke County Sheriff’s Office recently completed two joint investigations with a focus on potential sexual predators and repeat/recidivist sex offenders, the department said Tuesday.
Operation Heart Breaker ran from Feb. 1-27. Investigators with the sheriff’s departments, FBI and US Marshals followed up on tips from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
From there, deputies say they were able to identify people who had child sexual abuse material, multiple child victims in Burke County and surrounding states, and interrupt active child sex abuse productions within the county.
Additionally, the department was part of Operation Safe Kids along with surrounding counties and state and national law enforcement.
https://www.wbtv.com/2024/03/05/burke-co-officials-arrest-8-child-sex-related-crimes-state-national-investigation/ 

▫️Operation Catch-Up: Law enforcement arrest 3 following offender operation in Jefferson County
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Monticello Police Department arrested two sexual offenders and one sexual predator following a countywide operation to verify the addresses of registered offenders.
During “Operation Catch-Up”, investigators checked registration information provided by career offenders, sexual offenders and sexual predators by visiting more than 50 offenders living in Jefferson County. In addition to the three arrests, investigators began criminal investigations on four absconded sex offenders.
https://www.wtxl.com/news/local-news/in-your-neighborhood/fdle-jefferson-county-sheriffs-office-and-monticello-pd-arrest-3-following-offender-operation 

▫️(UPDATE) Dragnet operation rescues 13 sexually exploited children across Texas, Abilene man charged
In a three-week operation, law enforcement agencies across North Texas rescued 13 children from sexual abuse and filed 90 criminal charges against 47 people, according to a recent press release from Abilene police.
The dragnet campaign, Operation Janus, focused on the "rescue of children across North Texas who are victims of online sexual exploitation," police said in the press release.
They also seized 447 electronic devices containing terabytes of child sexual abuse material. Charges included multiple counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child, possession of child pornography, possession with intent to promote, online solicitation of a minor and possession of child pornography videos.
» https://abc7amarillo.com/news/local/47-child-predator-suspects-arrested-in-joint-sting-involving-amarillo-police-department-operation-janus-north-texas-internet-crimes-against-children-adrian-dominquez-alqindia-nunez-reyes-andrew-trejo-angel-flores-arsenio-rodriguez-bryan-larumbe
» https://www.aol.com/police-dragnet-operation-rescues-13-173420022.html 

▫️(UPDATE) 'Operation March Sadness': Polk County school teachers, coaches and military members arrested
Judd says of the 66 suspected prostitutes that were arrested, 13 are possible human trafficking victims. 
"In one year, we have identified 58 potential victims of human trafficking in one year with these operations. What’s significant about that? That’s the most we've ever been able to identify," Judd said. 
He went on to state that the reason so many victims were able to be rescued is because the sheriff’s office included councilors in the operations from the beginning.
» https://www.fox13news.com/news/human-trafficking-bust-teacher-coaches-among-228-arrested-in-polk-county
»

▫️Illinois State Police arrest 5 in anti-human trafficking operation
DANVILLE — Five men are in custody following an Illinois State Police investigation into a “human-trafficking operation” in the Danville area.
State police said members of the Trafficking Enforcement Bureau in the Division of Criminal Investigation conducted a two-day operation starting Feb. 28 that was focused on identifying individuals seeking to engage in sex acts with children for money.
» https://foxillinois.com/news/local/illinois-state-police-arrest-5-in-anti-human-trafficking-operation  (VIDEO)
» https://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/courts-police-fire/five-men-arrested-in-child-trafficking-operation-in-danville/article_ca4c22de-3319-57a6-a98e-bbb5afc586e7.html
» https://www.mystateline.com/news/local-news/state-police-say-5-illinois-men-traveled-to-meet-a-child-for-sex/ 

▫️2 men arrested for alleged child sex trafficking in Yavapai County
PRESCOTT, AZ — The latest arrest happened on Thursday. According to the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office, 41-year-old Charles Mcannally from Prescott Valley offered to pay a 16-year-old girl for sexual acts.
He was booked into jail on charges of child sex trafficking. Deputies didn’t say how they caught up with the suspect.
On Feb. 25, a woman called YCSO about about man who offered her a date in exchange for sex work. She also claimed the man asked her if she would perform sex acts on his 10-year-old son, deputies said.
Investigators said they tracked down the suspect to Phoenix, and with the help of the Phoenix Police Department, he was arrested on Feb. 26.
YCSO said they have arrested nine suspects in the past five months in Yavapai County in connection to human trafficking.
» https://www.azfamily.com/2024/03/05/two-men-arrested-connection-2-child-sex-trafficking-incidents-yavapai-county/
» https://theprescotttimes.com/news/two-child-sex-trafficking-busts-highlights-importance-for-funding/article_de0d354c-db49-11ee-9b2c-5be4e700bb23.html 

▫️Las Vegas family court marshal accused of sex trafficking teen girl
LAS VEGAS  – A Las Vegas family court marshal is accused of sex trafficking a 17-year-old girl and also paying her for sex, the 8 News Now Investigators have learned.
Bryce Tokunaga, 31, faces five felony charges including sex trafficking of a child under 18, facilitating sex trafficking of a victim less than 18, first-degree kidnapping of a minor, being a customer engaging in soliciting a child for prostitution, and child abuse or neglect.
“He is supposed to be there to protect children and yet he’s out there exploiting them,” Clark County Chief Deputy District Attorney Hetty Wong.”
The defendant is not only a John, meaning he’s not just a customer on this victim and paying her for sex, but he’s actually supplying her with the tools to prostitute herself.
https://www.8newsnow.com/investigators/las-vegas-family-court-marshal-accused-of-sex-trafficking-teen-girl/ 

▫️ERO Washington, D.C. apprehends 8 noncitizen sex offenders during national ICE operation | ICE
WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Washington, D.C. arrested eight noncitizens with sex offense convictions during a nationwide law enforcement effort that netted 275 noncitizen sex offenders. The operation ran from Feb. 5 to Feb. 16.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-washington-dc-apprehends-8-noncitizen-sex-offenders-during-national-ice-operation 

▫️ERO San Francisco arrests Mexican citizen wanted for child rape | ICE
SAN FRANCISCO — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) San Francisco arrested an individual Feb. 22 who had an outstanding warrant issued by the District Court in Zacatecas, Mexico, for the rape of a child.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-san-francisco-arrests-mexican-citizen-wanted-child-rape 

▫️2 sentenced to prison in separate child exploitation cases in Puerto Rico | ICE
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A religious leader in Cayey, Eduardo Luis Marrero Casanova, 53, was sentenced Feb. 27, 2024, by Chief Judge Raul M. Arias Marxuach, to 240 months of imprisonment for two counts of production of child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, from December 2022 through Jan. 25, 2023, Marrero Casanova used a cellphone and instant messaging services to persuade, induce, entice and coerce two 15-year-old boys to engage in sexual activity so he could produce a visual depiction of it.
In a separate case on Feb. 9, Alexander Joel Rivera-Santos, of Salinas, was sentenced by Senior Judge Francisco A. Besosato 51 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for possession of child exploitation material.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/2-sentenced-prison-separate-child-exploitation-cases-puerto-rico 

▫️Garland Man Sentenced to 45 Years for Sexual Assault of Child Recorded
In a damning verdict out of McKinney, Texas, a 45-year no-parole prison sentence has been slapped on a man caught on camera sexually assaulting an 11-year-old child, as per an announcement from District Attorney Greg Willis's office.
Nathanael Lane, 42, of Garland, Texas, was found guilty of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, the Plano Police informed.
https://hoodline.com/2024/03/garland-man-sentenced-to-45-years-for-sexual-assault-of-child-recorded-during-plano-sleep-study/ 

▫️Philadelphia Pastor Convicted of Rape & Sexual Assault of 3 Minors
The pastor of a Pentecostal church in Philadelphia has been convicted of sexual assault of three minors, including a former congregant, in incidents dating back two decades.
On Wednesday, a jury in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, found Rev. Mark Hatcher, lead pastor of Holy Ghost Headquarters Revival Center, guilty of 10 counts of sex crimes against minors, according to court records. These included multiple charges of rape, statutory sexual assault, and indecent assault. 
One girl, then age 13, stated that Hatcher brought her to an unoccupied home owned by the church that was under renovation, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. 
While she was alone with him in the house, he pinned her to a mattress and raped her, covering her mouth as she screamed for help, according to the affidavit.
» https://julieroys.com/philadelphia-pastor-hatcher-convicted-rape-sexual-assault-three-minors/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/philadelphia-pastor-convicted-of-rape-sexual-assault-of-3-minors/ 

▫️UPDATE: Pennsylvania man who bought body parts from Arkansas woman gets probation
A Pennsylvania man tangled in a human remains trafficking scheme was sentenced to two years probation on Tuesday,
In September 2023, Jeremy Pauley pleaded guilty to conspiracy and interstate transportation of stolen property. Officials said that he worked with five others to sell stolen body parts from Harvard’s Medical School.
Pauley and his attorney signed the federal plea agreement on May 8 and the Assistant United States Attorney approved the deal on June 13, one day before federal prosecutors announced charges against Pauley and five others as part of the human remains trafficking investigation.
Several others were charged in connection to a nationwide network of people who bought and sold remains that were removed from Harvard Medical School without the program’s knowledge.
» https://www.abc27.com/local-news/cumberland-county-body-parts-trafficker-to-be-sentenced-on-federal-charges/
»  https://www.nwahomepage.com/news/national/pennsylvania-man-who-bought-body-parts-from-arkansas-woman-gets-probation/
»

▫️Selling human remains a felony under new Minnesota law proposal
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Selling human remains for profit could become a felony in Minnesota under a new proposal being discussed by lawmakers.
Authored by Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn (DFL-Roseville), the bill proposes new coding in Minnesota law that would prohibit the sale of human remains throughout the state, while administering a felony charge as punishment for being found guilty of participating in the act.
Approved by the House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee on Tuesday, the bill now heads to the general register for a House Floor vote. A companion bill is still being discussed in committee in the Senate.
https://www.aol.com/news/selling-human-remains-felony-under-221931761.html 

▫️2nd State Passes Bill to Confront Forced Organ Harvesting in China
Utah’s state legislature has unanimously passed legislation aimed at tackling the bloody practice of forced organ harvesting in communist China, the second U.S. state to do so as the horrors of the abuse gain growing recognition.
S.B. 262, a bill that prohibits health insurers from covering a human organ transplant from or post-transplant care performed in China due to the risk of the regime’s state-sponsored abuse, passed the Utah House chamber by a vote of 70–0 on March 1 and was signed by the Senate president on the same day.
https://www.ntd.com/2nd-state-passes-bill-to-confront-forced-organ-harvesting-in-china_977368.html 

▫️Former NASA engineer charged with sexually assaulting 2 women released on $500K bond, records show
Two women are accusing a NASA aerospace engineer of sexually assaulting them in 2021.
Eric Sim, 37, is charged with two counts of sexual assault. He was arrested on Friday and has since been released on a $500,000 bond.
Both women told authorities they met Sim on a dating app and had been on a few dates with him prior to the alleged assaults.
https://abc13.com/eric-sim-charged-with-sexual-assault-nasa-engineer-posts-500k-bond-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-2-women-in-2021-remake-gangnam-style/14494100/ 

▫️Investigation into Abuse at the Lord’s Ranch in Arkansas
Sexual abuse firms investigate the Lord’s Ranch, former Arkansas facility for troubled children.
Romanucci & Blandin, LLC and Gillispie Law Firm are conducting an extensive civil litigation investigation into multiple allegations of sexual abuse at the Lord’s Ranch Christian religious camp and treatment facility in Warm Springs, Arkansas. We represent more than a dozen victims from Arkansas, Alaska, Illinois and Indiana, and ask witnesses and anyone with knowledge of what happened at the camp to come forward. This investigation is time-sensitive, as all civil litigation must be filed by the end of January 2024.
Anyone with information about the Lord’s Ranch is encouraged to contact the legal team to provide a witness statement.
The sexual abuse attorneys at Romanucci & Blandin have proven success in these types of cases. If you or a loved one has suffered injury or abuse, please contact our office at info@rblaw.net, 312-548-9342 or click here for a free case evaluation. There is never a fee until you are compensated for your injuries at the end of the case.
» https://www.rblaw.net/investigation-abuse-the-lords-ranch-arkansas-suhl
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/investigation-into-abuse-at-the-lords-ranch-in-arkansas/ 

▫️Outrage as Kentucky Democrat says pedophiles should be allowed to have child SEX DOLLS to 'give them a release' - before calling them 'minor-attracted persons'
A Kentucky Democrat has sparked outrage after suggesting pedophiles should be allowed to have child sex dolls to stop them abusing kids.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13159971/Kentucky-Democrat-Karen-Berg-says-pedophiles-given-child-sex-dolls.html 

▫️Attorney General Ashley Moody Demands Meta Stop Monetizing Child Exploitation on Instagram
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Attorney General Ashley Moody is demanding Meta immediately cease monetizing child exploitation and prohibit child-modeling accounts on Instagram.
The call comes after news reports revealed the social media platform monetized minor accounts and actively promoted the accounts of young girls to those with overt sexual interest in minors.
Attorney General Moody, along with 26 other attorneys general, today sent a letter to Meta to protect children online and stop this activity.
https://spacecoastdaily.com/2024/03/attorney-general-ashley-moody-demands-meta-stop-monetizing-child-exploitation-on-instagram/ 

▫️SOAP project working to end human trafficking in Dayton
DAYTON, Ohio  — Several groups and volunteers are coming together to work to put an end to human trafficking with the SOAP Project.
The SOAP Project was started by Theresa Flores who is a survivor of human trafficking. When she was being trafficked, the only time she had to herself was in the bathroom. The project is meant to reach and rescue others like her.
SOAP is an acronym for Saving Our Adolescence from Prostitution.
https://www.wdtn.com/news/local-news/soap-project-working-to-end-human-trafficking-in-dayton/ 

▫️The House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance holds a hearing about “A Voice for the Voiceless—CSAM Identification” at 10 a.m. ET., March 6, to examine joint efforts among federal, state, international entities, and non-government partners that are essential for the identification and rescue of CSAM (Child Sex Abuse Materials) victims.
Witnesses:
Tim Tebow, Founder, Tim Tebow Foundation; former professional football player
Camille Cooper, Vice President of Anti Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation, Tim Tebow Foundation
Jim Cole, retired Homeland Security Investigations supervisor

▫️Human Trafficking Awareness Training is March 21 | News List | City of Panama City Beach, FL
Florida State University Panama City is sponsoring a Human Trafficking Awareness Training at the campus at 4750 Collegiate Drive, from 4;30-6;30 p.m. on Thursday, March 21. The training will take place in the Holley Building. 
All attendees will receive a training completion certificate from the Attorney General's Office. Register soon, as space is limited. The event is free.
https://www.pcbfl.gov/Home/Components/News/News/5618/18 

▫️2024.03.21.CMHLS: Human Trafficking Awareness
Children's Mental Health Lecture Series: Human Trafficking Awareness. With: Debra Ellinger
Date: March 21, 2024 Time: 9:00am-11:00am; Location: Zoom Platform
https://www.dwctraining.com/2024-03-21-CMHLS-Human-Trafficking-Awareness.id.4150.htm 

▫️Bucks County Community College Hosting Forum On Combatting Human Trafficking
The event scheduled for 12;30 p.m. on Thursday, March 7 will feature Allegra Cressman, director of programming at Worthwhile Wear, who will share insights on the nonprofit’s efforts to combat modern-day slavery.
The event will take place in the Gallagher Room of the Rollins Center building at 275 Swamp Road in Newtown Township. For those unable to attend in person, the community college will be live streaming. Interested participants are encouraged to register in advance at https://bit.ly/BCCC-EndSlavery.
https://levittownnow.com/2024/03/05/community-college-hosting-forum-on-combatting-human-trafficking/ 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Oklahoma officials rescue 10 in trafficking sting, multiple suspects arrested
OKLAHOMA CITY  — Oklahoma officials recovered human trafficking victims and arrested many suspects as part of a two-day sting operation in the Oklahoma City metro area.
According to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN), on February 23, ten victims were recovered and offered services. On the following day investigators, OBN said the operation focused on a demand-reduction for commercial sex, which frequently results in evidence of human trafficking. It resulted in seven males being arrested for solicitation of prostitution.
If you have information on human trafficking, report it to the OBN Human Trafficking Unit Tip Line at 855-617-2288.
https://okcfox.com/news/local/oklahoma-officials-rescue-10-in-trafficking-sting-multiple-suspects-arrested-city-police-department-vice-homeland-security-investigations-chickasaw-light-horse-district-21-da-task-force 

▫️Georgia sex trafficking suspect arrested, missing girl found
HARDEEVILLE, S.C. — According to the Hardeeville Police Department, authorities received a tip about a known suspect wanted for sex trafficking out of Georgia.
A vehicle transporting the suspect was located and a traffic stop was initiated. The suspect, identified as Jaquan Duvall Barnes, of Port Royal, ran but was captured.
"During that time a missing juvenile female from Beaufort County was located acquainted with the suspect," Hardeeville Police said in a statement.
Barnes is now charged with Fugitive from Justice, Obstruction and Sex Trafficking of a Minor.
https://www.wjcl.com/article/jaquan-barnes-hardeeville-sex-trafficking/60110532 

▫️Undercover prostitution sting in Florence County leads to multiple arrests
FLORENCE COUNTY, S.C. - On February 22, the Florence County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Bureau and the SLED Human Trafficking Division conducted the sting at motels on Woody Jones Boulevard in Florence.
Three women and one man were arrested and charged, Quincy Leonard Pickens was charged with assisting/promoting prostitution and released from the Florence County Detention Center on a $265.00 personal recognizance bond.
https://wpde.com/news/local/undercover-prostitution-sting-florence-county-sled-deputies-sled-human-trafficking-motels-woody-jones-boulevard-ashley-dakota-hopkins-daveeda-sherell-newsome-jariah-rickell-melton-quincy-leonard-pickens 

▫️Virginia Beach police officer arrested for child sex crimes
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - After an investigation by the VBPD’s Special Investigations and Internal Affairs Bureaus, 31-year-old Kyle LaLonde was arrested and charged with attempt indecent liberties with a child less than 15 years of age, attempt indecent liberties, entice a minor to perform in child pornography, propose sex act by communication system with a child less than 15 years of age, solicitation to commit a felony and possession of child pornography.
LaLonde is currently employed as an officer with the Virginia Beach Police Department, but he has been relieved of his police powers, police said.
» https://www.wavy.com/news/local-news/virginia-beach/virginia-beach-police-officer-arrested-for-child-sex-crimes/   (VIDEO) 
»

▫️‘Undocumented’ man arrested for kidnapping in possible human trafficking investigation, one rescued
MIDDLETOWN, Ohio  - A 15-year-old from Honduras found with a 43-year-old man, who had arrest warrants out of Butler County, has led to an investigation for possible human trafficking.
An investigation started in Butler County when Sheriff Richard Jones says his office got a report about a relationship between 43-year-old Isauro Garcia Cruz and the teen.
Garcia Cruz, who is awaiting extradition back to Butler County, is facing the following charges:
Kidnapping; Unlawful sexual conduct with a minor; Gross sexual imposition; Interference with custody & contributing to the delinquency of a child in Bedford County, Sheriff Jones added.
The teen was placed in a sponsor’s home in Middletown by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, according to the sheriff’s office. Her sponsor also is an illegal immigrant and was the girlfriend of Garcia Cruz, according to the sheriff’s office.
» https://www.fox19.com/2024/03/06/middletown-man-arrested-kidnapping-possible-human-trafficking-investigation/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.yahoo.com/news/area-man-arrested-kidnapping-charges-214344758.html   (VIDEO)
» https://www.journal-news.com/news/middletown-man-arrested-in-virginia-for-alleged-crimes-with-a-teen/ODYT3OLZYZFMPOJGG36LAOL2SU/
»

▫️Trafficking arrest; Wisconsin organization shines light on issue
MILWAUKEE - A Washington County man and a Milwaukee woman have been charged with sex trafficking and assaulting a teenage girl for years. Deep within a quiet neighborhood in Slinger lies disturbing details of extended child abuse.
Police say 55-year-old Todd Blehovde and 33-year-old Anne Carlson had a relationship that turned sexual in 2020 and detectives say, the following year, Carlson brought a 13-year-old girl to Blehovde’s home.
Emmy, founder of organization Lacey’s Hope Project, is a survivor of human trafficking. She said trafficking happens throughout the state, and many times to children groomed as young as 13, who are scared to upset the adults recruiting them.
She gives tips on what to look out for with children. Human trafficking resources can be found on the Lacey's Hope Project website.https://laceyshopeproj.wpengine.com/get-help/
» https://www.fox6now.com/video/1421924   (VIDEO)
 » https://www.fox6now.com/news/trafficking-arrest-wisconsin-organization-help
»

▫️10-Year-Girl Escapes Attempted Abduction by Man in Black Van in Providence
Providence Police are investigating a report of an attempted child abduction in the city on Wednesday afternoon.
The juvenile, who had just gotten off the bus, said a black van had pulled up, and that a man got out of the passenger side.
She said the man "violently" grabbed her and attempted to pull her inside the van. The victim said she was able to break free and that she fell to the ground, injuring her face, and then ran to a nearby business.
The suspect was described as a 6'0" Black male, wearing a long green coat, a gray hooded sweatshirt, a dark winter cap, and carrying a green backpack. 
https://www.golocalprov.com/news/10-year-girl-escapes-attempted-abduction-in-providence 

▫️Man tries to kidnap kid at Waffle House from family: TN cops
A stop for dinner at a Waffle House resulted in an attempted kidnapping when a stranger tried to take a 9-year-old boy from his family, Tennessee police said.
Now, a 30-year-old man faces multiple charges — including attempted kidnapping of a minor — after grabbing the boy at about 9;20 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, inside a Nashville Waffle House, according to a Davidson County arrest affidavit obtained by McClatchy News. The boy’s family stopped the man from taking the 9-year-old, then the suspect fled, officials said.
https://www.sacbee.com/news/nation-world/national/article286327735.html 

▫️Royal Caribbean employee accused of hiding cameras to spy on guests, including underage girls
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.  - A Royal Caribbean cruise employee is accused of hiding cameras inside bathrooms of passenger cabins to spy on guests, including underage girls.
Arvin Joseph Mirasol, 34, was arrested Sunday on federal charges of production and possession of child sexual abuse material after the Symphony of the Seas arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in the U.S. District Court of Florida. He also faces six counts of voyeurism in state court.
A guest staying in a cabin where Mirasol was an attendant found a camera in the bathroom Feb. 25. It was "affixed to the counter underneath the sink," according to the affidavit. She reported it to ship officials, who sent security to the room to investigate.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13164603/Royal-Caribbean-cabin-attendant-accused-hiding-cameras-bathrooms-spy-guests.html 

▫️Former pastor charged with sex crimes against children
OLIVE BRANCH, Miss. - Eighteen years in prison — that’s the sentencing fate of a former Olive Branch pastor charged with sex crimes against children.
According to the Desoto County District Attorney’s Office, Daniel Paul Harris, former pastor of Olive Branch Christian Church on New Craft Road, will have to serve this term without the possibility of parole or early release.
https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/former-olive-branch-pastor-charged-with-sex-crimes-against-children-records-show/article_9cf35dfa-dc2c-11ee-b385-6f6ddc8f868f.html 

▫️Judge prescribes prison for Lower Pottsgrove pharmacist convicted of indecent assault of underage girl
NORRISTOWN — A judge has prescribed prison time for a former Lower Pottsgrove pharmacist on charges he attempted to sexually assault a female customer at the pharmacy where he once worked, had indecent contact with an underage girl on numerous occasions while she was in his company and solicited nude photos from a second underage girl.
Phillip David Sebrell, 48, of the 100 block of Merion Drive, Limerick Township, was sentenced in Montgomery County Court to a total of 4 to 12 years in a state correctional facility in connection with multiple incidents that occurred with the three victims between 2011 and 2022.
https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2024/03/06/judge-prescribes-prison-for-lower-pottsgrove-pharmacist-convicted-of-indecent-assault-of-underage-girl/amp/ 

▫️Marseilles man charged with sexually abusing children, producing sexual abuse images
A Marseilles man was picked up Wednesday on a no-bond warrant charging him with seven felony counts of sexual abuse and possession of child sexual abuse images.
Nathaniel R. Haff-Fluech, 21, is charged with three counts of producing child sexual abuse images, a Class X felony carrying six to 30 years in prison, plus two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and two lesser counts of possession of child sexual abuse images.
» https://www.shawlocal.com/illinois-valley/2024/03/06/marseilles-man-charged-with-sexually-abusing-children-producing-sexual-abuse-images/
» https://recentlybooked.com/IL/LaSalle/NATHANIEL-HAFF-FLUECH~1520_HNR21WM03062024 

▫️"Hits close to home": 3 arrested after child sex crimes streamed online
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.  — An investigation that began with two boys recounting years of sexual abuse streamed online landed three Boca Raton suspects in the Palm Beach County jail Tuesday, according to Sheriff’s Office records.
The recent arrest has since sparked a conversation among national advocates, who work nonstop to try to put an end to this type of abuse.
All three suspects face at least one count of sexual battery of a child under 12 years old, jail records show. If convicted, they could face the death penalty under new Florida law for the capital crime. Two of them were also booked on a second count as well as two counts each of cruelty toward a child by allowing the child to engage in sex and felony criminal conspiracy.
"The live streaming of abuse hits close to home," Internet Safety Expert & Abduction survivor Alicia "Kozak" Kozakiewicz told CBS12 News Wednesday.
https://cbs12.com/news/local/3-arrested-after-child-sex-crimes-streamed-online-pbso-reports-palm-beach-county-ocala-motherless-livestream-march-6-2024   (VIDEO) 

▫️ERO Washington, D.C. apprehends previously removed Guatemalan noncitizen convicted of aggravated sexual battery of Virginia minor | ICE
RICHMOND, Va. — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Washington, D.C. arrested an unlawfully present Guatemalan noncitizen convicted Feb. 9 for aggravated sexual battery of a Virginia minor. Deportation officers from ERO Washington’s Criminal Apprehension Team apprehended the 43-year-old sex offender Feb. 21 in Richmond.
The Richmond City Jail released the noncitizen earlier that day, despite an ERO Washington, D.C. immigration detainer filed with the facility. After ERO Washington deportation officers identified themselves to the Guatemalan national, he attempted to flee. After a brief foot pursuit, the deportation officers caught him and took him into custody.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-washington-dc-apprehends-previously-removed-guatemalan-noncitizen-convicted 

▫️Human trafficking training set for Wildhorse Resort and Casino
MISSION, Ore.-The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation Gaming Commission will host a training on human trafficking prevention March. 20-21 at Wildhorse Resort and Casino.
According to the CTUIR, the training is free and open to anyone who may benefit from it, however, it will be geared toward law enforcement, first responders, transportation providers, public assistance providers, health care providers and educators.
https://www.fox41yakima.com/human-trafficking-training-set-for-wildhorse-resort-and-casino/ 

▫️Governor's Council on Human and Sex Trafficking Public Awareness Subcommittee Meeting
State of Alaska Council on Human and Sex Trafficking: Friday, March 8, 2024, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
https://aws.state.ak.us/OnlinePublicNotices/Notices/View.aspx?id=214499 

▫️Tim Tebow urges Congress to fund child exploitation ‘rescue team’
GAINESVILLE, Fla.  - Florida Gator legend Tim Tebow spoke to members of Congress to advocate for funding to combat child sexual exploitation.
On Wednesday morning, Tebow appeared before a U.S. House Judiciary subcommittee to push forward legislation for a different kind of MVP: Most Vulnerable People. The bill would fund efforts to identify an estimated more than 50,000 children being abused, raped, and tortured according to the Tim Tebow Foundation.
Last August, a Homeland Security unit completed the first of its kind Operation Renewed Hope which identified children victimized in illicit images found online. The team was able to contact 14 victims and rescue several children from abusive situations.
https://www.wcjb.com/2024/03/06/tim-tebow-urges-congress-fund-child-exploitation-rescue-team/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Top Republican Elise Stefanik calls Biden's secret migrant flights an 'assault on democracy' and ABUSE of taxpayer dollars as outrage continues
No. 3 House Republican Elise Stefanik is the latest to tear into revelations of a program last year that used taxpayer funds to fly 320,000 undocumented immigrants directly from foreign countries to U.S. airports.
The report has ruffled feathers among Republican politicians, border hawks and anti-illegal immigration activists and even Elon Musk.
'Not only is Joe Biden ignoring his border crisis, he's facilitating it with taxpayer dollars. This is an assault on our national security and American safety,' Rep. Stefanik wrote on X, formerly Twitter, as she shared the DailyMail.com report of the secret flights.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13165069/Elise-Stefanik-calls-Bidens-secret-migrant-flights-assault-democracy.html 

▫️Failure to Protect: U.S. Immigration and Criminal Justice Systems Repeatedly Released a Dangerous Illegal, Even After Being Convicted of Child Sex Offense
RICHMOND, Va. — A troubling incident involving a Guatemalan illegal convicted of aggravated sexual battery against a minor in Virginia has exposed critical lapses in the U.S. immigration and criminal justice systems, revealing a pattern of decisions that have repeatedly put American citizens at risk.
From the moment the 43-year-old convicted pedophile unlawfully entered the United States, his interactions with law enforcement and the immigration system have been marked by a series of questionable decisions and procedural delays that have allowed him to evade proper accountability at every turn.
The series of failures culminated starkly on February 9, 2024, when the Richmond Circuit Court convicted the illegal of aggravated sexual battery on a minor aged between 13 and 14 years. 
https://rairfoundation.com/failure-protect-u-s-immigration-criminal-justice-systems/ 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Human trafficking bust on West Side leads to detention of 15 people
SAN ANTONIO - The incident happened around 8:30 p.m. when officers were called out to assist the Department of Homeland Security off Buena Vista Street near South Zarzamora Street.
What we know right now is that San Antonio Police SWAT and Street Crimes units were called out to a home that looks to be a safe house used for human trafficking.
Those identified as victims were taken to an Homeland Security facility. The investigation is ongoing.
» https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/human-trafficking-bust-on-west-side-leads-to-detention-of-15-people-san-antonio-texas-investigation-evidence-victims-suspects-homeland-security   (VIDEO+GALLERY)
» https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2024/03/08/15-people-detained-in-possible-human-smuggling-operation-on-west-side-sapd-says/
» https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/human-smuggling-home-san-antonio/273-002c7716-0bfd-4c6b-ba8f-fd683d3e59fa 

▫️Depraved mother and son are charged with sexually abusing children as young as five and live streaming it for money as shaken judge says: 'You shocked the court'
A mother, her son and her boyfriend, are behind bars, accused of a litany of child sex abuse charges that left a judge with 25 years on the bench in Florida 'shocked.' 
This week, police in Boca Raton, along with FBI agents, raided the home that Walquiria Cassini, 38, her son, Matthew, 20, and her boyfriend Ryan Londono, 42, all shared. The raid came after a four month long investigation. 
Cassini is accused of sexually abusing two male children, the youngest of which is under ten, and charging online perverts a fee to watch. The abuse of her youngest child began when he was just five, the other when he was nine. 
The heavily redacted complaint features graphic descriptions of the acts allegedly perpetrated by Cassini and Londono, including penetrating the children with sex toys as a group watched online.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13169193/Walquiria-Cassini-Ryan-Londono-Matthew-boca-raton-child-sex-abuse.html 

▫️A Northern Kentucky man thought he was meeting a child at a hotel. Undercover deputies were waiting for him
BURLINGTON, Ky. — A Northern Kentucky man thought he was meeting an 8-year-old boy at a hotel to solicit sex, but when he arrived, undercover deputies were waiting for him.
The Boone County Sheriff's Office said a grand jury indicted Paul Stratton, 53, of Dry Ridge on Feb. 27 on seven counts, including promoting human trafficking of a victim under 18 and possession of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor victim under 12, among others.
Paul Stratton, 53, is facing several charges including promoting human trafficking of a minor.
https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/boone-county/a-northern-kentucky-man-thought-he-was-meeting-a-child-at-a-hotel-undercover-deputies-were-waiting-for-him  (VIDEO) 

▫️St. Lawrence Co. man arrested again; accused of sex crimes against minor
CANTON, N.Y.  – A 19-year-old Norfolk man was arrested for a second time this month after being accused of raping a minor.
St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Kayden Dubuque on charges of second-degree rape, second-degree criminal sex act and disseminating indecent material to a minor.
https://www.localsyr.com/news/local-news/st-lawrence-co-man-arrested-again-accused-of-sex-crimes-against-minor/ 

▫️Traffic stop leads to human trafficking investigation, missing teen rescued
Milwaukee Traffic Stop Uncovers Missing Teen, Leads to Sex Trafficking Arrests
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office says a man and woman have been arrested after a traffic stop led to the discovery of a missing 17-year-old.
36-year-old Kenneth Ray Hampton, Jr. is facing the following charges related to the incident: Child enticement; Sexual intercourse with a child; Contributing to the delinquency of a child; Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence- 3rd offense.
» https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/traffic-stop-leads-to-human-trafficking-investigation-teen-girl-rescued  (VIDEO)
» https://www.cbs58.com/news/mcso-man-facing-child-enticement-charges-after-deputies-find-missing-teen-during-traffic-stop 

▫️Child Predator Suspect Hid in EMC Homeless Camp
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX -  In an operation led by Pct. 4 Constable Kenneth “Rowdy” Hayden’s team, Deputies located a suspected child predator hiding within a homeless camp behind the Planet Fitness in New Caney. The suspect was 33-year-old Jody Strength, of Houston, who had an active felony warrant for Indecency with a Child/Sexual Contact issued in of Polk County.
https://montgomerycountypolicereporter.com/constable-hayden-says-child-predator-suspect-hid-in-emc-homeless-camp/ 

▫️Dallas Woman Arrested in Shreveport for Human Trafficking of 16-Year-Old
Shreveport Police Department's (SPD) Vice Unit apprehended 24-year-old Zakayla Davis from Dallas, on charges of human trafficking and pandering. The arrest occurred in the 800 block of Clyde Fant Memorial Parkway, where Davis was found with a teenager suspected to be a victim of sexual trafficking.
Davis faces serious charges, including one count of human trafficking and one count of pandering.
» https://www.ksla.com/2024/03/07/dallas-woman-arrested-shreveport-alleged-human-trafficking-juvenile/
» https://www.ktalnews.com/news/crime/shreveport-police-say-dallas-woman-suspected-of-trafficking-teen-arrested/ 

▫️Leading creator of child porn on 'dark web' convicted in Nevada
A man accused of victimizing dozens of minors as the leading purveyor of child sexual abuse material on the "dark web" between 2018 and 2021 was convicted on Thursday of multiple counts of child pornography and exploitation by a federal court jury in Nevada.
James Patrick Burns, 55, of Sparks, Nevada, who was already a registered sex offender, faces a prison term of 25 years to life when he is sentenced on June 10, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Nevada said in announcing the conviction.
A federal court jury in Reno found him guilty on eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, eight counts of coercion and enticement of a minor and one count each of advertising, receiving, distributing and possessing child pornography.
Prosecutors said Burns' child victims numbered more than 100, many of whom have yet to be identified.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/reuters/article-13171053/Leading-creator-child-porn-dark-web-convicted-Nevada.html 

Police search for person of interest in an attempted child abduction in Rhode Island
PROVIDENCE, R.I.  — Police in Rhode Island asked the public to help them find a person of interest in an attempted child abduction.
The Providence Police Department said a 10-year-old girl was the victim of an attempted child abduction near her school bus stop on Wednesday shortly before 5:30 p.m.
https://kmph.com/news/nation-world/police-search-for-person-of-interest-in-an-attempted-child-abduction-in-rhode-island-providence-kidnapping-school-bus-stop-alleged-attacker-suspect-investigations 

▫️Chino Teacher Ray Crummitt Arrested on Suspicion of Child Abuse
CHINO, CALIFORNIA  – A teacher at EJ Marshall Elementary School identified as Ray Crummitt has been arrested on suspicion of assaulting a student.
San Bernardino County officials are saying that the incident took place on Monday. Chino Police Department officials were called to EJ Marshall Elementary School after learning about the allegations.
Ray Crummitt was arrested by responding officers on suspicion of child abuse. Further details about the nature of the incident were not made available.
https://www.carrillofirm.com/chino-teacher-ray-crummitt-arrested-on-suspicion-of-child-abuse/ 

▫️Former Catholic school teacher sentenced; 6+ years prison for sex assault of students
WAUKESHA, Wis. - Former Catholic school teacher Kevin Buelow was sentenced on Thursday, Jan. 19 to six-and-a-half years in prison and an additional ten years extended supervision for sexually assaulting 4th grade students in New Berlin.
Prosecutors say Buelow assaulted three students when he was a fourth grade teacher at Holy Apostles Elementary School in New Berlin five years ago. 
https://www.fox6now.com/video/1422509   (VIDEO) 

▫️Life Imprisonment For Sexual Abuse Of Children, Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material
Mark Deakins, 64, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, on Thursday was sentenced to life imprisonment by Judge Charles E. Atchley, Jr., United States District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
“For nearly three decades, Deakins, a repeat sex offender, committed unspeakable crimes against pre-teen and teen boys,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “Thanks to the tireless work of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and our prosecutors, this defendant will spend the rest of his life in prison.“
https://www.chattanoogan.com/2024/3/7/483947/Mark-Deakins-Sentenced-To-Life.aspx 

▫️Border Patrol Tactical Unit marksman fires round fatally injuring armed man assaulting migrants in the Otay Mountains
EL PASO, Texas — A Border Patrol precision marksman shot and killed a gunman who was robbing a group of migrants and was threatening to shoot one of them on Sunday in the mountains east of San Diego, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said.
Based on witness interviews conducted by investigators, a group of migrants was walking on the paved road in the early morning hours when they were approached by four individuals, at least one of whom was armed with a handgun. According to the witnesses, the armed individual demanded money from the group, racked his pistol to chamber a round, and pointed the weapon at one of the migrants. Then the migrants heard a single gunshot and observed the armed individual fall to the ground.
» https://www.abc27.com/border-report-tour/border-patrol-sniper-fatally-shoots-man-threatening-to-kill-migrant/
» https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/border-patrol-tactical-unit-marksman-fires-round-fatally-injuring
» https://www.borderreport.com/immigration/border-crime/border-patrol-sniper-fatally-shoots-man-threatening-to-kill-migrant/ 

▫️U.S. Marshals Apprehend Child Sex Offender
Columbia, SC - The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force (CRFTF), in coordination with the Lexington Police Department (LPD) and Aiken County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), Feb. 29 arrested an Aiken man wanted by Lexington authorities for sex crimes against a child.  
Jesus Sevilla Moreno, 38, was wanted for criminal solicitation of a child, sexual conduct with a minor, providing obscene material to a minor, aggravated assault, and crimes against property. 
When law enforcement attempted to take Sevilla Moreno into custody, he resisted arrest, physically fighting with investigators, and attempted to flee on foot but was caught and arrested. 
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/us-marshals-apprehend-child-sex-offender 

▫️Progreso CBP officers apprehend man wanted on felony warrant for multiple sex-related offenses
Carlos Cantu, 47, a U.S. citizen, was the subject of an outstanding felony arrest warrant for sexual assault, invasive visual recording and indecent assault issued by McAllen Police Department.
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/progreso-cbp-officers-apprehend-man-wanted-felony-warrant-multiple-sex 

▫️Lawsuit filed against San Jose Sharks' parent company for sexual abuse by youth hockey coach
SAN JOSE, Calif.  - A lawsuit has been filed against the company that owns the San Jose Sharks alleging that a 12-year-old player was sexually abused by a former youth hockey coach.
The suit filed in Santa Clara Superior Court on Thursday alleges that Sharks Sports & Entertainment, LLC and its subsidiary, Sharks Ice, LLC, were negligent in the case involving former coach Kevin Whitmer.
The lawsuit alleges that Whitmer began grooming the 12-year-old male victim in April 2021 and assaulted him numerous times at Sharks Ice. The suit accuses Whitmer of performing sexual acts on the boy while they were alone in the locker room.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13171915/Lawsuit-filed-against-San-Jose-Sharks-parent-company-sexual-abuse-youth-hockey-coach.html 

▫️Texas teen Lizbeth Medina murder: What to know about illegal immigrant suspect Rafael Romero
Rafael Govea Romero, the suspect in Texas 16-year-old Lizbeth Medina's December 2023 murder, is set to be arraigned Thursday in Jackson County.
Romero, a 24-year-old illegal immigrant from Mexico, is accused of stalking the high school cheerleader and aspiring nurse before allegedly striking her over the head and stabbing her in the Edna apartment that she shared with her mother.
A spokesperson for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) told Fox News Digital that ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston "lodged an immigration detainer with the Jackson County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office on Rafael Govea-Romero, 24, Mexico, following his arrest for capital murder."
» https://www.foxnews.com/video/6348347842112   (VIDEO)
» https://www.yahoo.com/news/texas-teen-lizbeth-medina-murder-090059236.html 

▫️Florida sheriff blasts border policies after 21 illegal foreign nationals charged in sex trafficking ring
An undercover human trafficking operation in Florida found that 21 illegal foreign nationals were using papers given to them by the Department of Homeland Security to fly to major cities in the United States for free to engage in sex trafficking, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said.
“Federal policy drives illegal immigrant crime and victimization,” Judd said when announcing the results of a multi-agency undercover operation that led to the arrest of 228 people. Among them, 21 people arrested were in the country illegally, citizens of Chile, Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela.
» https://www.myhometowntoday.com/uncategorized/florida-sheriff-blasts-border-policies-after-21-charged-in-sex-trafficking-ring
» https://www.thecentersquare.com/florida/article_e83ba45e-dce3-11ee-b509-a75f0b01c4cf.html 

▫️Local counseling center raises awareness of human trafficking
WEST FORK, Ark. — Thursday night, Watkins Family Health & Counseling put on an expert panel discussion at Unity Covenant Church in West Fork to bring awareness about sex trafficking. 
"We are educating the West Fork and surrounding communities on what is human sex trafficking, the impact of trafficking in Northwest Arkansas, and how to identify it, report it, and treat it," Dr. Charla Watkins said. "There's a lot of trafficking that goes on between Northwest Arkansas and Memphis. And anytime that you have like the interstate, and you have drugs and weapons, you have sex trafficking." 
https://www.5newsonline.com/article/news/crime/panel-awareness-sex-trafficking-northwest-arkansas/527-65ea954e-2be2-434b-8655-b6e70cb82c3f   (VIDEO) 

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▫️Northwest Dallas prostitution sting leads to 30 arrests after businesses complain about recent surge
DALLAS - Dallas police arrested 30 men in an undercover prostitution bust in the city.
Police launched the operation this week after an outcry from local businesses.
» https://www.fox4news.com/news/dallas-police-prostitution-sting-leads-to-30-arrests   (VIDEO)
» https://dallasexpress.com/crime/northwest-dallas-prostitution-sting-clocks-30-arrests/ 

▫️8 arrested in prostitution sting 'Operation Spring Fling': Mobile Police
MOBILE, Ala.  — Eight people were arrested Thursday as part of an undercover operation for prostitution in the area, according to the Mobile Police Department.
An MPD news release said their Narcotics and Vice Unit, along with the Tactical Intelligence Unit, conducted “Operation Spring Fling.” The undercover operation targeted alleged prostitution.
https://www.wkrg.com/mobile-county/8-arrested-in-prostitution-sting-operation-spring-fling-mobile-police/ 

▫️Undercover sting nets four arrests in Wichita County
WICHITA FALLS  — A joint Department of Public Safety and Collin County Sheriff’s Office undercover online sting has led to four Wichita County arrests so far on charges of soliciting minors for sexual purposes the first week of March.
Bonds of $25,000 were set on Eric Dabel of Spokane, Washington; Daniel Sattler of Wichita Falls; Herman Hughes of Arlington; and Quorez Palmer of Montgomery, Alabama. Hughes has an additional $25,000 bond for the attempted trafficking charge.
» https://www.texomashomepage.com/news/crime/undercover-sting-nets-four-arrests-in-wichita-county/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2024/03/08/sting-nets-men-suspected-of-soliciting-underaged-girls-for-sex/72900991007/ 

▫️ERO St. Paul arrests 15 noncitizen sex offenders during nationwide law enforcement effort | ICE
ST. PAUL, Minn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) St. Paul arrested 15 noncitizens with sex offense convictions during a nationwide law enforcement effort that netted 275 noncitizen sex offenders. The operation ran from Feb. 5 to Feb. 16.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-st-paul-arrests-15-noncitizen-sex-offenders-during-nationwide-law-enforcement 

▫️ERO Chicago arrests 28 noncitizen sex offenders during nationwide law enforcement effort | ICE
CHICAGO — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago arrested 28 noncitizens with sex offense convictions during a nationwide law enforcement effort that netted 275 noncitizen sex offenders. The operation ran from Feb. 5 to Feb. 16.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-chicago-arrests-28-noncitizen-sex-offenders-during-nationwide-law-enforcement 

▫️‘A very dangerous person’: Sex offender tried to kidnap girl, exposed himself to kids, Polk County sheriff says
WINTER HAVEN, Fla.  — The community is credited with cracking the case of a “serial sex offender” accused of preying on women and children in Winter Haven.
The suspect, Robert Miranda, 42, of Titusville is a registered sex offender and “a very dangerous person,” Sheriff Grady Judd said in a news conference.
Miranda is now facing several charges, including attempted kidnapping and lewd exhibition.
» https://www.wfla.com/news/polk-county/polk-deputies-arrest-man-accused-of-attempted-kidnapping-exposing-himself-to-children-sheriff-says/
»  https://dailyridge.com/2024/03/08/brevard-county-registered-sex-offender-busted-in-polk-county-accused-of-trying-to-kidnap-9-yr-old-girl/
»

▫️Video shows rescue of abducted Wayne County boy in Akron
AKRON, Ohio — The Wooster man accused of stealing a truck with a 2-year-old boy inside, triggering an Amber Alert one week ago, has been indicted on several felony charges. 
A Wayne County grand jury indicted 54-year-old Larry Spence on charges of kidnapping, abduction, and grand theft of a motor vehicle. Spence's next court appearance has not yet been scheduled, however prosecutors are asking that he be held without bond. 
https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/crime/body-camera-video-rescue-abducted-wayne-county-child-akron-amber-alert/95-cb7fef92-d41a-40a5-bba6-ac5db447fa06  (VIDEO) 

▫️Surveillance video shows sexual assault suspect in Oakland
Pittsburgh police released a new video of a person they say is a suspect in the sexual assault of a woman in the city's Oakland neighborhood.

▫️Los Angeles man accused of sex trafficking and raping a woman he kidnapped
A Los Angeles man has been charged in federal court on allegations that he kidnapped a woman, raped her and forced her to work for him as a prostitute.
Leslie Anthony Bailey, 32, was arraigned Friday afternoon in Santa Ana on a five-count federal grand jury indictment, according to the United States Department of Justice.
Bailey was arrested Thursday by special agents with the Department of Homeland Security and members of the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force.
Authorities say Bailey, who lives on a boat docked in the South Bay of Los Angeles, has been charged with sex trafficking, kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse and two counts of using a cellphone to operate a prostitution business.
https://ktla.com/news/california/los-angeles-man-accused-of-sex-trafficking-raping-woman-he-kidnapped/ 

▫️51-year-old Ringgold man arrested after online group conducts sting to catch child predators
CATOOSA COUNTY, Ga. – Catoosa County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 51-year-old Ringgold man, James A. Myers, on February 19, 2024, for arranging to meet a juvenile female for sex. The arrest stemmed from a sting operation conducted by an Internet group called “Predator Poachers,” who pose as juveniles to ensnare sexual offenders and bring awareness to online crimes against children.
One of the group’s members explained that he possessed Facebook messages between Myers and an “11-year-old juvenile” that included Myers explicitly discussing having sex with and impregnating her. After Myers invited the “juvenile” to his home, the group notified authorities and met them at his doorstep.
https://thegeorgiagazette.com/featured/51-year-old-ringgold-man-arrested-after-online-group-conducts-sting-to-catch-child-predators/ 

▫️MPD arrest one in attempted child molestation case
Officers were notified that Predator Poachers had been in contact with an individual from Ohio on a social media site, the release said. They agreed to meet at the Hampton Inn, where the suspect had rented a room to allegedly have sexual relations with a 9-year-old, the release said.
According to the release, officers found child pornography on the suspect's phone during the execution of the search warrant.
The suspect, Eric Grow, 52, of Hartville Ohio, was arrested and charged with Attempted Child Molestation, a Level 4 Felony and Possession of Child Pornography, a Level 5 Felony.
» https://www.chronicle-tribune.com/news/mpd-arrest-one-in-attempted-child-molestation-case/article_a0e900fc-510d-5481-a899-309d04977d6c.html
» https://netpredators.com/eric-grow/ 

▫️QC man faces solicitation charge after Predator Poachers-involved arrest
A 38-year-old East Moline man who faces a felony charge of indecent solicitation of a child appeared Friday in Rock Island County Court, where a judge told him he will remain in jail.
Earlier, Brian Taylor thought he was communicating with a 12-year-old girl named Heidi, prosecutors said Friday. He and the girl, who was a decoy created by Predator Poachers out of Houston, Texas, agreed to meet at a McDonald’s in East Moline.
https://www.ourquadcities.com/news/crime/qc-man-faces-solicitation-charge-after-predator-poachers-involved-arrest/  

▫️Man charged with child sex crimes after police search Nashville home
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – A Nashville man has been arrested on child sex abuse charges after detectives searched his home on Friday morning.
James F. Austin, 31, is charged with sexual exploitation of a minor after more than 30 files depicting child sex abuse were found in a cloud-based account linked to his phone, according to the Metro Nashville Police Department.
Detectives began investigating Austin after MNPD’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit was forwarded a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Austin was taken into custody after leaving his Meadowcliff Drive home on Monday.
https://www.wsmv.com/2024/03/08/man-charged-with-child-sex-crimes-after-police-search-nashville-home/ 

▫️Muskegon County church deacon arrested on child porn charges
MUSKEGON, Mich. — A church deacon in Muskegon County has been arrested for possession of child porn.
Court records show Daniel DeVries, 49, faces three counts of possession of child sexually abusive material, and three counts of using a computer to commit a crime.
DeVries was arraigned Friday and given a $25,000 bond. Muskegon County Prosecutor, DJ Hilson, confirmed DeVries is a deacon at Unity Reformed Church in Norton Shores.
» https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/muskegon-county-church-deacon-arrested-on-child-porn-charges 
»

▫️Former Mississippi pastor charged with sex crimes against children gets 18 years
Eighteen years in prison — that’s the sentencing fate of a former Olive Branch pastor charged with sex crimes against children. Harris is charged with sexual battery and fondling.
According to the Desoto County District Attorney’s Office, Daniel Paul Harris, former pastor of Olive Branch Christian Church on New Craft Road, will have to serve this term without the possibility of parole or early release.
» https://www.fox13memphis.com/news/former-mississippi-pastor-charged-with-sex-crimes-against-children-gets-18-years/article_9cf35dfa-dc2c-11ee-b385-6f6ddc8f868f.html
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/former-mississippi-pastor-charged-with-sex-crimes-against-children-gets-18-years/ 

▫️Catholic priest accused of ‘inappropriate conduct against minors’ reinstated by Diocese of Davenport
This is not the first time Rev. John Stack has been temporarily removed due to an investigation into alleged abuse against minors.
A local Catholic priest has been reinstated by the Diocese of Davenport after allegations of “inappropriate conduct with a minor,” according to a press release. 
The Diocese says it was made aware of the allegations against Fr. John Stack in 2023. The alleged abuse stems from the mid-1990s, the release says.
» https://www.wqad.com/article/news/local/local-priest-reinstated-diocese-of-davenport-after-allegations-of-abuse-minors/526-41758a2c-1cf0-4d3c-8bc9-804b17aac6bf
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/catholic-priest-accused-of-inappropriate-conduct-against-minors-reinstated-by-diocese-of-davenport/ 
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▫️3 men arrested in Meriden for involvement in child sex crimes
MERIDEN, Conn. — Three men were arrested for their roles in a child sex abuse operation in Meriden, the Meriden Police Department reported on Monday.
A collaboration between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the police department resulted in the arrests of Wilson Suarez, 28, Francisco Carrero, 51, and 61-year-old John Magaldi.
Suarez was charged with criminal attempt at risk of injury, sexual contact victim under 16, criminal attempt of sexual assault in the second degree, and criminal attempt/commercial sexual abuse of a minor. His bond was set at $250,000.
Carrero was charged with criminal attempt at risk of injury, sexual contact victim under 16, possession of narcotics and criminal attempt/commercial sexual abuse of a minor. His bond was set at $250,000.
Magaldi was charged with criminal attempt at risk of injury, sexual contact victim under 16, criminal attempt at sexual assault in the second degree, criminal attempt/commercial sexual abuse of a minor and interfering with police. His bond was set at $350,000.
https://www.fox61.com/article/news/local/new-haven-county/meriden/3-men-arrested-by-fbi-meriden-police-for-child-sex-crime-scheme/520-06418bb2-fb66-4531-815f-502588a10b14 

▫️Immigration agents nab Jamaican national convicted of sexual assault
BOSTON, CMC – The United States Immigration and Enforcement (ICE) agency says officers from its Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Boston, Massachusetts, have arrested an unlawfully-present Jamaican national convicted of sexual assault and battery of a Massachusetts resident. 
On Friday, ICE said the 30-year-old, Jamaica-born, convicted sex offender was apprehended in Barnstable, Massachusetts. 
» https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20240310/immigration-agents-nab-jamaican-national-convicted-sexual-assault
» https://jamaica.loopnews.com/content/jamaican-predator-nabbed-us-sex-offender-sweep 

▫️'I wasn't thinking': Martin Correctional Institution employee arrested for child porn
INDIANTOWN, Fla. — A Martin Correctional Institution employee is behind bars after a cyber-tip led investigators to videos containing child pornography on his Snapchat account, an arrest report states.
Deputies with the Martin County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) arrested 35-year-old Shamus Cusson on Wednesday.
Cusson was booked into the Martin County Jail on two counts of images depicting child pornography, three counts of video voyeurism of a victim under the age of 16, two counts of producing any performance which includes sexual conduct involving a child, now count of lewd molestation of a 13-year-old child.
» https://cbs12.com/news/local/-martin-correctional-institution-employee-shamus-cusson-accused-of-possession-of-child-pornography-following-cyber-tip-florida-news-martin-county-sheriffs-office-march-8-2024 
»

▫️Georgia teen hid for days after family receives chilling calls in ‘elaborate’ kidnapping scheme – Action News Jax
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Action News Jax’s sister station WSB-TV reported that Gwinnett County police are warning people about an elaborate kidnapping scam that sent an 18-year-old girl into hiding for days while her family faced vicious threats from people claiming to have kidnapped her.
He told her that her phone had been used to make threats toward Mexican officials and that she needed to go into hiding for her safety and her family’s safety, Gwinnett police told WSB-TV’s Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson.
The fake kidnappers took even more steps to trick the family into believing their loved one was in danger.
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/gwinnett-county/gwinnett-county-police-issue-warning-elaborate-about-kidnapping-scams/DDLUYEO76FAAPBE5PQO4DHU5CM/
» https://www.actionnewsjax.com/news/georgia/georgia-teen-hid-days-after-family-receives-chilling-calls-elaborate-kidnapping-scheme/IMSBUK2ZEVGL7CLEBNEC4JBLNI/ 

▫️Retired Army Special Forces officer using military skills to disrupt human sex trafficking playing Skull Games
COLUMBUS, Ga.  — A former military officer who founded an organization that aims to disrupt human sex trafficking was in Columbus in early March.
Jeff Tiegs spoke to several groups about how his organization works with law enforcement and other agencies to combat the sex trafficking across the nation.
https://www.wrbl.com/news/retired-army-special-forces-officer-using-military-skills-to-disrupt-human-sex-trafficking-playing-skull-games/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Jamestown Priest no longer allowed to administer sacraments, celebrate religious services, after pleading guilty to sexual assault
A former priest from the Diocese of Fargo has been stripped of his duties after a ruling from the pope on Friday.
The announcement came from the Diocese of Fargo and Pope Fransis, saying Neil Pfeifer, formerly a priest in Jamestown and the Diocese, is officially unable to exercise priestly ministry. This includes being able to celebrate Mass, hear confessions, or administer sacraments under Canon Law. 
Pfeifer pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of sexual assault in Sutsman County on July 13th, 2023.
» https://www.am1100theflag.com/news/regional-news/74063-former-jamestown-priest-no-longer-allowed-to-administer-sacraments
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/former-jamestown-priest-no-longer-allowed-to-administer-sacraments-celebrate-religious-services-after-pleading-guilty-to-sexual-assault/ 

▫️Webinars scheduled to raise awareness and educate community on critical issues
The Sequoyah County Coordinated Response and Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Teams (CCR/SART) have initiated a new public awareness initiative for 2024.
The aim is to conduct at least one Zoom webinar each month, focusing on educating the community about various aspects of trauma caused by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.
https://www.kxmx.com/post/webinars-scheduled-to-raise-awareness-and-educate-community-on-critical-issues 

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▫️Operation Renewed Hope II:  HSI, partners conduct US-based international victim identification surge, 8 victims rescued | ICE
WASHINGTON — The Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cyber Crimes Center’s (C3) Child Exploitation Investigations Unit conducted Operation Renewed Hope II, from Feb. 26 through March 8, resulting in the location and positive identification of 19 previously unknown child sexual abuse victims, which includes 8 victims rescued from active abuse.
The operation was the second of its kind held in the United States. HSI hosted international law enforcement agencies, who worked together on hundreds of cold cases involving previously unknown victims of online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
The operation generated 285 foreign and 129 domestic leads containing the location and probable identities of children were generated through sophisticated investigative techniques targeting offenders who operate via the internet, which includes the use of forums, websites, email, chat rooms and file-sharing applications.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-partners-conduct-us-based-international-victim-identification-surge 

▫️Professor, pediatric dentist among 17 arrested in undercover sting operation in Fairfield County
FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Ohio  — Authorities arrested 17 people at hotels in Fairfield County as part of an anti-prostitution bust.
The Fairfield County Sheriff's Office said sting operations were set up at hotels in Fairfield County after ads were placed online using websites known for advertising sexual services.
The suspects range in age from 18 to 68 and face charges of engaging in prostitution. For example, during this sting, deputies arrested 56-year-old Ronald Griffin. The sheriff said he's a pediatric dentist from Lancaster. According to the Ohio State Dental Board, Griffin's license is active.
Another man arrested was 60-year-old Ruey Bruce, who the sheriff said is a professor at Columbus State.
» https://myfox28columbus.com/news/local/17-arrested-in-prostitution-bust-in-fairfield-county-sheriffs-office-hotel-sting-operation-crackdown-arrests-custody    (VIDEO)
» https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/17-arrested-charged-with-engaging-in-prostitution-in-fairfield-county-sting-operations/530-9d622571-f65e-4f1f-8b48-294ed4811406 

▫️10 busted in Garfield County on human trafficking and other charges in multi-agency anti-human trafficking sting
Most of these arrests were part of an anti-human trafficking sting, but others were caught by police during "fugitive location operations"
» https://www.denver7.com/news/crime/7-men-in-custody-in-garfield-county-following-multi-agency-anti-human-trafficking-operation-deputies-say  (VIDEO)
» https://www.kjct8.com/2024/03/11/garfield-county-anti-human-trafficking-fugitive-arrests/
» https://iowaspulse.com/joint-task-force-makes-significant-arrests-in-anti-human-trafficking-operation/ 

▫️Homestead Man Charged with Attempted Kidnapping of Teen Girl
A Homestead man has been apprehended by police after allegedly attempting to kidnap a 13-year-old girl, authorities say. The suspect, identified as 43-year-old Michael Luprecio, faces charges of attempted child kidnapping and battery following the incident, which took place on Friday morning.
According to WSVN, police arrested Luprecio on Monday after he reportedly tried to abduct the teen while she was out walking her dog in Homestead.
» https://wsvn.com/news/local/miami-dade/13-year-old-girl-shares-encounter-with-man-arrested-in-homestead-for-attempted-child-abduction/
» https://hoodline.com/2024/03/homestead-man-charged-with-attempted-kidnapping-of-teen-girl-and-battery/ 

▫️Operation Child Predator V: Polk County Sheriff Charges 8 Suspects With Child Sex Crimes, Dunedin Man Wanted
POLK COUNTY, Fla. – Detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Auburndale Police Department, Davenport Police Department, Lakeland Police Department, Lake Wales Police Department, and Hardee County Sheriff’s Office charged eight suspects with crimes related to those who prey upon and travel to meet children for unlawful sexual activity during an eight-day undercover investigation.
Detectives obtained arrest warrants for three other suspects who committed crimes against who they thought were children online; two of those suspects are in custody, and one is still at large. Two of the men – James Johnson, 39, and Antone Sparks, 48 – are still wanted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
» https://www.tampafp.com/polk-county-sheriff-charges-8-suspects-with-child-sex-crimes-dunedin-man-wanted/
»  https://www.fox13news.com/news/polk-county-sheriff-grady-judd-child-sex-sting-law-enforcement-arrest-crime-charges
»

▫️Man charged with trafficking of persons in sexual assault of underage girl in Waco
WACO, Texas - Craig Geville Manos, 38, is charged with trafficking of persons after he took an underage girl to a home and sexually assaulted her, arrest warrant affidavits state.
A Waco police detective was assigned the case on Nov. 8, 2023, and reviewed the victim’s forensic interview. In it, the victim claimed Manos and another suspect took her to a home where Manos sexually assaulted, the arrest affidavit states.
https://www.kwtx.com/2024/03/11/man-charged-with-trafficking-persons-sexual-assault-underage-girl-waco/ 

▫️Hartford HealthCare doc among 3 charged with child sexual exploitation
The police department and FBI collaborated on the joint operation this month, according to police, and arrested a 28-year-old man, a 61-year-old man and a 50-year-old man who are charged with attempting to make sexual contact with victims younger than 16 years old.
John Magaldi, 61, was charged with criminal attempt at risk of injury, sexual contact with a victim under the age of 16, criminal attempted second-degree sexual assault and criminal attempted commercial sexual abuse of a minor and interfering with police.
https://www.courant.com/2024/03/11/joint-operation-between-ct-police-fbi-leads-to-three-arrests-on-child-sexual-exploitation-charges/ 

▫️Montrose man arrested, charged with sexual assault on child
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.  - A Montrose man was arrested earlier this month and faces 16 counts of sexual assault on a child and additional charges.
37-year-old-Matthew Dunham of Montrose was arrested on March 9th as confirmed by the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.
Dunham allegedly committed sexual and physical acts with underage victims between January 2018 and July 2023 in Mesa County.
https://www.kkco11news.com/2024/03/11/montrose-man-arrested-charged-with-sexual-assault-child/?outputType=amp 

▫️Fort Zumwalt janitor charged with attempted enticement of child
According to a press release from the University City Police Department, officers received a call on Saturday from a group called Predator Catchers Incorporated about a decoy sting they were performing. The group told the officers that they had been posing as a 13-year-old girl on Instagram and chatting with Manor.
The charge, attempted enticement or attempted enticement of a child, is a class U felony.
https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/fort-zumwalt-south-janitor-arrested-online-predator-catcher-group-investigation/63-05b6ca06-7a81-40b8-944a-35a1f6f03208    (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Canterbury School teacher accused of possessing child pornography on the run
The Fox 4 crew in court for Thomas Deane's plea hearing Monday morning, says the former Canterbury School teacher did not show up.
The state attorney's office says the former Canterbury School teacher, charged with 42 crimes, cut off his ankle monitor and was last seen in Miami. Deane was arrested and charged with having lewd contact with a minor over social media in 2022.
» https://www.fox4now.com/fort-myers-metro-south/plea-deal-for-deane-former-canterbury-teacher-in-court-on-40-sex-charges
»

▫️Providence police nab man wanted in attempted kidnapping
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Police have arrested a man wanted for the attempted kidnapping of a 10-year-old girl in Providence last week, 12 News has learned.
Marc Pierre, 45, was taken into custody in Fall River on Monday, according to Providence Police Maj. David Lapatin.
https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/providence/providence-police-nab-man-wanted-in-attempted-kidnapping/ 

▫️Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force sting arrest
A Dover man was reportedly arrested Friday as part of a Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force sting.
An official from the office said Dover resident Nicolas Ortiz, 24, traveled to Salem after agreeing during the sting to pay $100 for a sex act with a 15-year-old on a website used for prostitution. solicitations.
https://www.mahoningmatters.com/news/local/article286542355.html
» https://www.wytv.com/news/local-news/man-arrested-in-sex-sting-operation-out-of-salem/ 

▫️Crime Stoppers: $5,000 Reward offered for Sexual Assault of Child fugitive
Crime Stoppers may pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the charging and/or arrest of Cristian Vidal Molina Lopez who is wanted for Sexual Assault of a Child (14-17).
Information may be reported by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477), submitted online at www.crime-stoppers.org or through the Crime Stoppers mobile app.
https://www.theleadernews.com/community/crime-stoppers-reward-offered-for-sexual-assault-of-child-fugitive/article_c0c53488-dfd8-11ee-b8da-571590a5d42e.html 

▫️Texas man sentenced to 400 years in prison for sexually abusing children
SAN MARCOS, Texas - A San Marcos man was sentenced on Monday to hundreds of years in prison for sexually abusing two children and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
45-year-old Bo Michael Dresner has been sentenced to 410 years in prison on 65 counts of continuous sexual abuse of multiple children and possession of child pornography with intent to promote.
https://www.fox7austin.com/news/texas-child-sexual-abuse-dresner-bo-conviction-san-marcos    (VIDEO) 

▫️Baby and Teen Recovered in Akron From West Chester Amber Alert
Akron, OH – A short time ago, members of the U.S. Marshals led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF), along with the Akron Police Department, and agents from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), recovered Sara Herrera, 1, and her mother, Maoly Toscano Hererra, 17.  Additionally, Bayron Tejeda, 22, the father of the baby girl, was arrested.  
Early this morning, an Amber Alert was issued for both Sara Herrera and Maoly Toscano Herrera after they were taken from a foster home located in West Chester, Ohio. 
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/baby-and-teen-recovered-akron-west-chester-amber-alert 

▫️St. Croix Man, 65, Facing Charges for Child Sexual Exploitation
Juan Bermudez, a 65-year-old resident of St. Croix, has been formally charged with several serious offenses, including sexual exploitation of a child, coercion and enticement, second-degree aggravated rape, and second-degree unlawful sexual contact, United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced.
https://viconsortium.com/vi-crime/virgin-islands-st--croix-man--65--facing-charges-for-child-sexual-exploitation 

▫️Attorney Disbarred for Having Sex With Minor
The Supreme Court of Ohio today permanently disbarred a northwest Ohio attorney who the Court found repeatedly had sex with a child.
The Court disbarred Amber R. Goodman of Elida, in Allen County. Goodman has been under an interim suspension since her 2022 felony conviction for unlawful sexual contact with a minor. Goodman served eight months of a 30-month prison sentence 
https://www.courtnewsohio.gov/cases/2024/SCO/0312/230740.asp 

▫️Roswell cracking down on massage parlors and spas
The Roswell City Council passed an ordinance with stricter regulations to stop illegal behavior happening behind closed doors.

▫️Woman arrested on prostitution charges in connection to human trafficking investigation
POCATELLO — A woman was arrested last week in connection to a six-month Pocatello police investigation into a local massage parlor suspected of operating a prostitution and human trafficking operation.
Liyun Ma, 43, most recently of Flushing, New York, was arrested Wednesday and charged with one felony count of procurement of prostitution following an investigation by the Pocatello police street crimes unit, according to a police report the Idaho State Journal recently obtained.
https://www.idahostatejournal.com/news/crimes_court/woman-arrested-on-prostitution-charges-in-connection-to-human-trafficking-investigation/article_2b2080ac-dfe4-11ee-b673-efbe3e374f3b.html 

▫️Warden ousted as FBI again searches California federal women's prison plagued by sexual abuse
The warden of a troubled federal women´s prison in California has been ousted months into his tenure as FBI agents on Monday hauled boxes of evidence from the facility in an apparent escalation of a yearslong investigation that put a former warden and other employees behind bars for sexually abusing inmates.
Government lawyers said in court papers Monday that Art Dulgov was removed as warden of FCI Dublin in the wake of allegations that his staff had retaliated against an inmate who testified in January in a lawsuit against the prison. The inmate was transferred to a different prison despite the judge's order not to transfer any witnesses without court approval, filings in the case show.
More than a dozen FBI agents searched FCI Dublin on Monday, seizing computers, documents and other evidence and seeking to interview employees, a person familiar with the matter told the Associated Press. The person was not authorized to speak publicly and did so on the condition of anonymity.
FBI spokesperson Cameron Polan confirmed that agents were there conducting "court-authorized law enforcement activity," but declined to give details.
Monday's search came days after a new wave of civil lawsuits alleging abuse at FCI Dublin and as a federal judge weighs appointing a special master to oversee the prison's operations. The prison, about 21 miles (34 kilometers) east of Oakland, has been known as the "rape club" because of years of rampant staff-on-inmate sexual abuse.
An AP investigation in 2021 found a culture of abuse and cover-ups that had persisted for years at the prison, which currently has more than 650 inmates.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13183833/FBI-searches-California-federal-womens-prison-plagued-sexual-abuse.html 

▫️Report: Cincinnati seminary's IP address used to upload child sexual abuse video
CINCINNATI — A former seminary student used the IP address of the Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Cincinnati to repeatedly upload videos of naked children being sexually abused, according to police and court records.
Broderick Witt, 28, allegedly shared the material online from November 2023 to February 2024, according to his 15-count indictment. Herrmann is a co-founder of the nonprofit Ohioans for Child Protection. The group pushes the Archdiocese of Cincinnati for more transparency.
https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/i-team/report-man-studying-to-be-priest-uploaded-child-sexual-abuse-videos-using-cincinnati-seminarys-ip-address 

▫️FBI director: Smuggling organizations connected to ISIS coming through US border
(The Center Square) – FBI Director Christopher Wray on Monday confirmed that a smuggling organization working with the terrorist organization ISIS is funneling criminals through the U.S. border. He also said the FBI is currently investigating its operations that “we’re very concerned about.”
In a U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing held on Monday on worldwide threats to the United States, U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Florida, asked Wray about threats coming through the U.S. border.
“Over the last three years, millions of people crossed the U.S. border illegally and many have been released into the country,” Rubio said, asking first about “people with ties to dangerous gangs.”
» https://www.thecentersquare.com/issues/public-safety/article_8530a844-e014-11ee-92db-7b19be1217c8.html 
»

▫️New Video Of Human Trafficking Operation At The Border Goes Viral

▫️U.S. Border Patrol Arrests Five Child Sex Offenders at Southern Border
U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested five child sex offenders in five different sectors over the weekend, officials said. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens said USBP agents in the sectors of Yuma, Tucson, El Paso, Del Rio, and Rio Grande Valley arrested five child sex predators. Their criminal histories, Owens said, included sexual assault of a person 15 years old and aggravated sexual assault of a child.
https://headtopics.com/us/u-s-border-patrol-arrests-five-child-sex-offenders-at-49361320 

▫️ERO Boston arrests Nigerian citizen convicted of indecent solicitation of a child in Rhode Island | ICE
BOSTON — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston arrested an unlawfully present Nigerian citizen convicted of indecent solicitation of a Rhode Island child. Deportation officers with ERO Boston apprehended the 45-year-old Nigerian sex offender Feb.15 in Rumford, Rhode Island.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-arrests-nigerian-citizen-convicted-indecent-solicitation-child-rhode 

▫️Wyomissing detective visits Thailand as part of human trafficking training and prevention efforts
WYOMISSING, Pa. - A Wyomissing detective recently returned from Thailand, where he helped train other law enforcers to combat human trafficking.
"It was dark," said Detective Sgt. Kevin Quinter, with the Wyomissing Borough Police Department. '"Like it was probably the scariest thing I've ever dealt with."
Quinter says his recent time in Thailand was eye opening. He was part of a group of law enforcement officers from the U.S. who partnered with Zoe International, an organization that's working to end human trafficking.
https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/berks/wyomissing-detective-visits-thailand-as-part-of-human-trafficking-training-and-prevention-efforts/article_7cac7b84-dfb1-11ee-a0a9-57430bbd2cb3.html   (VIDEO) 

▫️Rock Co. Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force Warns People on the Dangers of the Internet

▫️The Ring True & Free Birrd PROJECT: Supporting Survivors
This is a project for Ring True and Free Bird to be reused with their permission.
If your heart hurts just thinking about the fact that human trafficking exists, we are right there with you. Ring True provides all of us regular people with an accessible way to help in the fight against human trafficking. We employ survivors directly in safe homes who are on their healing journey after being rescued. By providing employment and hope, we can all help and support these  beautiful survivors and encourage them in their new lives.
Thank you for checking out who we are! We’d love to partner with you in this fight! Click the attached links for information on our business where you can support the survivors work and our non-profit which meets additional needs of survivors.

▫️Community invited to anti-human trafficking event in Shelby
An anti-human trafficking event will be held in Shelby next month to raise awareness and provide education to the community.
Senator Ted Alexander and the NC Institute Against Human Trafficking are heading up the anti-human trafficking awareness event, and it will be held Friday, April 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Elizabeth Baptist Church at 301 N. Post Road.
Raleigh Sadler is the featured guest speaker & author of "Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking".
https://www.shelbystar.com/story/news/2024/03/12/community-invited-to-anti-human-trafficking-event/72895274007/ 

▫️How Metrolink is fighting human trafficking
The Southern California passenger rail service Metrolink says it is strengthening its efforts to combat human trafficking along its more than 540 miles of tracks.
Earlier this year, Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle joined other transit leaders across the country in signing a United States Department of Transportation pledge to do even more to combat human trafficking.
Traffickers regularly target transit hubs like bus stops and train stations to target victims and recruit vulnerable individuals while often using public transportation to move victims around various locations, officials say.
https://ktla.com/news/california/how-metrolink-is-fighting-human-trafficking/ 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Operation Kessel Run: 12 arrested for trying to seduce minors for sex in Escambia County
PENSACOLA, Fla. - Twelve men are charged in Escambia County with seducing minors to engage in sexual conduct and traveling to meet them for sex.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement led an 11-agency team in an operation called "Kessel Run." Authorities held a press conference Monday morning in Pensacola to announce the results.
» https://weartv.com/news/local/operation-kessel-run-12-arrested-for-trying-to-seduce-minors-for-sex-in-escambia-county  (VIDEO)
» http://www.northescambia.com/2024/03/operation-kessel-run-12-accused-of-trying-to-lure-minors-for-sex-in-escambia-county
» https://www.pnj.com/story/news/crime/2024/03/12/fdle-arrests-12-during-child-sex-sting-operation-in-escambia-county-and-alabama/72943058007/ 

▫️Blytheville, Arkansas, police officer fired, faces charge related to child porn
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Blytheville, Arkansas police officer has been fired after he was arrested on a charge related to child porn.
Arkansas State Police (ASP) said they arrested David Paul Cross, 25, on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, after serving a search warrant on his home. Investigators said they seized electronic devices and other evidence.
Cross is now charged with distributing, possessing, and/or viewing of materials depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.
» https://www.dps.arkansas.gov/news/asp-arrests-blytheville-police-officer/
»  https://www.localmemphis.com/article/news/crime/blytheville-arkansas-police-officer-fired-faces-charge-related-child-porn/522-b8bf6d2d-1f5c-4458-a9d5-63959148c08c
»

▫️Police: Child predator accused of raping Cambria Co. teen while fishing, trick-or-treating
CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa  — Police in Cambria County say a convicted child predator is behind bars following an investigation into accusations that he sexually assaulted a local teen, on multiple occasions.
According to the affidavit, police were contacted in November after the 14-year-old victim reported that she had been sexually abused by 50-year-old John Beach, who reportedly resides in Dale Borough and is "known to her."
Authorities say the victim described two incidents of sexual assault, the first of which allegedly occurred while the two had gone fishing last summer at the Quemahoning Reservoir in Conemaugh Township, Somerset County.
Police say the victim told officers that Beach had allegedly "grabbed her by the throat" and forced her into the back of his truck where he allegedly assaulted her.
https://wjactv.com/news/local/police-convicted-child-predator-accused-raping-cambria-county-teen-while-fishing-trick-or-treating-halloween-johnstown-dale-borough-york-pennsylvania-crime-sexual-assault-investigation 

▫️Carthage duo accused of coercing trafficked workers with threats of deportation
CARTHAGE, Mo. — Carthage Police make two arrests in an ongoing human trafficking case. Criminal charges have been filed against Jose Rabanales-Miranda, 47, and Judith Cancinos-Huinac, 50.
Court documents allege that for the last six months, Rabanales-Miranda and Cancinos-Huinac forced four adults to work for free or extremely low pay under threat of deportation.
https://www.fourstateshomepage.com/news/crime/carthage-duo-accused-of-coercing-trafficked-workers-with-threats-of-deportation/ 

▫️Abington Township detectives concerned there's more victims after urgent care worker arrested
A medical assistant is facing charges after he allegedly impersonated a licensed nurse and sexually assaulted two patients at a Montgomery County urgent care, Abington Township police said Monday.
Ramon Garcia, a former medical assistant at Carbon Health Urgent Care in Jenkintown, was arrested Monday afternoon while at work. Garcia was charged with sexual assault and invasion of privacy for his role in two incidents in the past month at the urgent care.

▫️Madeline Soto case: Mother’s boyfriend hit with 60 new charges of child sexual abuse
Madeline Soto’s mother’s boyfriend has been hit with 60 new charges of child sexual abuse as the investigation into her death continues.
Madeline, 13, was reported missing on 26 February in Kissimmee, close to Orlando, Florida, after her mother’s boyfriend Stephan Sterns claimed he had dropped her off at school.
Mr Sterns was then arrested a few days later, after “disturbing” images and videos were found on his phone. The charges include sexual battery on a child under 12; five counts of sexual battery of a child aged 12 to 8; seven counts of lewd and lascivious molestation.
Additionally, 40 counts of unlawful possession of 10 or more images depicting a sexual performance by a child, according to Andrew Bain State Attorney in the Ninth Judicial Circuit.
Sterns was already facing charges of sexual battery of a child under 12, and was being held without bond at the Osceola County Jail. Officials said he has not been charged in connection with Soto's death.
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13188319/madeline-soto-stepfather-charged-child-porn-sexual-abuse.html
» https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/madeline-soto-case-sexual-abuse-b2511418.html 

▫️'He got caught with his hand in the cookie jar': Man accused of trying to have sex with underage TN girl arrested
SHELBYVILLE, Tenn.  – A man who allegedly tried to meet a 13-year-old for sex was arrested Monday after a multi-day manhunt.
According to the Shelbyville Police Department, 26-year-old Robert Austin Mohrmann was talking to an underage girl online and sending her explicit messages and photos.
Shelbyville PD Detective Nathan Everhart oversaw the case and said once his team learned about the messages, they started communicating with Mohrmann directly.
“[We] gained consent to basically obtain her cell phone and to get into her social media account, so that we could continue the conversation with him, except this time, it would be with law enforcement,” Everhart said.
https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/man-accused-of-trying-to-have-sex-with-a-13-year-old-girl-arrested-after-undercover-operation-manhunt/   (VIDEO) 

▫️(UPDATE) Operation Child Protector V: 7 child sex predators arrested in Florida undercover sting include TSA officer, retired Army member: sheriff
Edmundo Dasilva, 37, was taken into custody after messaging an undercover detective that he would pay $60 to have sex with a child and showing up to the sting location, the sheriff’s office said. Dasilva told detectives he is married and works for Homeland Security as a TSA officer.
Another suspect, identified as 41-year-old Larry William Hayes, is a retired U.S. Army staff sergeant who worked as a satellite systems analyst and was working for the U.S. Department of Defense at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa with a high security clearance, Sheriff Grady Judd told reporters.
» https://www.foxbangor.com/news/national/7-child-sex-predators-arrested-in-florida-undercover-sting-include-tsa-officer-retired-army-member/article_f413fdf4-5bcd-5aec-b3bf-022bf118c273.html
» https://www.tampafp.com/married-north-carolina-man-in-florida-for-birthday-party-arrested-for-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Montgomery County man charged with child pornography
MONTGOMERY COUNTY – A Montgomery County man who worked around children has been arrested in a child porn bust after investigators say they found hundreds of images of child sexual assault material.
Deputies with Montgomery County Constable Precinct 3 arrested Luis Felipe Bracamonte, 61, at his home in Conroe on Tuesday morning.
He’s charged with five counts of promotion or distribution of child pornography with a total bond of $300,000, according to the Precinct 3 Constable’s Office.
» https://www.fox26houston.com/video/1424847   (VIDEO)
» https://www.click2houston.com/news/local/2024/03/13/main-event-suspends-employee-arrested-in-montgomery-county-child-porn-bust/
»

▫️Maryland church teacher arrested for child sexual abuse, Detectives believe there may be additional victims
DERWOOD, Md. — A man who worked as a teacher at a church in Derwood was arrested on sexual abuse charges, the Montgomery County Department of Police said Tuesday.
In May of 2023, detectives with the police department's Special Victims Investigations Division opened an investigation after a victim reported being sexually abused by a teacher at a Derwood church located near the 15700 block of Crabbs Branch Way in Montgomery County.
All of the victims were between the ages of 6 and 12 years old at the time of the abuse; Alfaro Lopez was 25 to 27 years old at the time.
This month, detectives got an arrest warrant, charging 33-year-old Ervin Jeovany Alfaro Lopez with multiple offenses, including sex abuse of a minor, second-degree sex offense and third-degree sex offense.
Detectives believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who may have been a victim of Alfaro Lopez is being asked to call the Special Victims Investigations Division office at (240) 773-5400.
» https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/maryland/derwood-church-teacher-arrested-child-sexual-abuse-charges/65-52e49344-3e24-4304-af7c-56cf4e47b57e   (VIDEO)
» https://dailyvoice.com/maryland/montgomery/man-sexually-abused-4-children-at-maryland-church-additional-victims-sought-police/ 
»

▫️Dozens allege child sexual abuse in Maryland treatment program under newly filed lawsuits
BALTIMORE - More than three dozen people allege in two lawsuits filed Tuesday that they were sexually abused as children at a Maryland residential program for youths that closed in 2017 following similar allegations.
In the separate lawsuits, atorneys detailed decades of alleged abuse of children by staff members of the Good Shepherd Services behavioral health treatment center, which had billed itself as a therapeutic, supportive environment for Maryland´s most vulnerable youth.
The program was founded in 1864 by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, a Catholic religious order focused on helping women and girls. It began at a facility in Baltimore before moving to its most recent campus just outside the city.
» https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/dozens-allege-child-sexual-abuse-maryland-treatment-program-108057308
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13189027/Dozens-allege-child-sexual-abuse-Maryland-treatment-program-newly-filed-lawsuits.html
» https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/dozens-allege-child-sexual-abuse-in-maryland-18930467.php
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/dozens-allege-child-sexual-abuse-in-maryland-treatment-program-under-newly-filed-lawsuits/ 

▫️Former Attorney at Law Office Representing Foster Children Charged with Distributing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material
LOS ANGELES – A former supervising attorney at a nonprofit that provides legal representation to foster children in juvenile dependency court was arraigned today on federal criminal charges alleging he possessed and distributed child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Charles Aghoian, 61, of Camarillo, is charged with three counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. He voluntarily surrendered this morning to federal law enforcement.
At the time of the alleged conduct, Aghoian was a supervising attorney at the Children’s Law Center of California, which maintains offices in Monterey Park, Sacramento, and Lancaster. The organization provides legal representation for abused, neglected, or abandoned children who fall under the jurisdiction of the state’s juvenile dependency court system. 
https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/former-attorney-law-office-representing-foster-children-charged-distributing-and 

▫️Howland attorney, arrested in human trafficking sting, suspended
A Howland attorney who lost his job as an assistant county prosecutor after being arrested for soliciting sex online from an undercover officer posing as a 15-year-old girl has now been indefinitely suspended from practicing law.
The Supreme Court of Ohio on Wednesday suspended Joseph M. Bell who, while at work in the child support unit of the Cuyahoga County prosecutor’s office in July 2021, went online with his phone to visit profiles of sex workers.
Investigators say Bell contacted a person who identified herself as a teen but was a police officer with the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force. 
Although Bell did not go through with plans to meet the “girl”, the Supreme Court found that Bell’s position as a prosecutor and his misconduct warranted an indefinite suspension.
https://www.wfmj.com/story/50565280/howland-attorney-arrested-in-human-trafficking-sting-suspended-from-practicing-law 

▫️Bipartisan bill seeks minimum mandatory sentences for human trafficking in Colorado
DENVER — A bipartisan bill in Colorado's state legislature wants to enact mandatory minimum sentences for perpetrators of human trafficking, while extending the statute of limitations for adult human trafficking survivors.
https://www.denver7.com/news/politics/bipartisan-bill-seeks-minimum-mandatory-sentences-for-human-trafficking-in-colorado 

▫️ERO Boston arrests Brazilian fugitive wanted for rape of a minor | ICE
“In addition to violating our immigration laws, this unlawfully present fugitive is wanted for the rape of a minor in his home country,” said ERO Boston Field Office Director Todd M. Lyons. “Such individuals present a danger to the safety of the residents in our New England communities."
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ero-boston-arrests-brazilian-fugitive-wanted-rape-minor 

▫️Reducing Sex-Buying Can Stop Sex-Trafficking, NCOSE Reveals
At a recent National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) symposium, researchers revealed their insights from a study funded by the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Institute of Justice.
They found that the reduction of sex-buying can effectively curb trafficking.
https://www.movieguide.org/news-articles/reducing-sex-buying-can-stop-sex-trafficking-ncose-reveals.html 

▫️FSUPC Human Trafficking Awareness - Thursday, March 21 · 4:30 - 6:30pm CDT - Florida State University Panama City, Collegiate Drive, Panama City, FL, USA
Join us at FSUPC Human Trafficking Awareness event to learn about the realities of human trafficking and how you can help make a difference.
Attendees will receive a certificate from the State Attorney General's office for completetion of training.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fsupc-human-trafficking-awareness-tickets-846137368647 

▫️Human trafficking prevention, awareness training - ‘Hidden in plain sight’
GRANGEVILLE — Did you know the number of human trafficking cases in Idaho increased by 271% between 2021 and 2022, according to data from Idaho’s Uniform Crime Report?
This was one of many things that around 50 attendants learned at prevention and awareness training at the Centennial Evangelical Free Church, Grangeville, about human trafficking on March 2 from Paula Barthelmess, a licensed clinical social worker and executive director of Idaho COBS (Community Outreach Behavioral Services), and Tammy Morin, crisis case manager of Idaho COBS. 
https://www.idahocountyfreepress.com/news/human-trafficking-prevention-awareness-training---hidden-in-plain-sight/article_00b07800-e097-11ee-b3d4-fb62f11f3508.html  

▫️DOT Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking: March 13, 2024 Meeting Presentations
TRAINING + AWARENESS SUBCOMMITTEE UPDATE March 13, 2024
https://www.transportation.gov/mission/office-secretary/office-policy/international-policy-and-trade/against-human-trafficking-27  (.pdf) 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Human trafficking campaign rescues 16 missing children during Super Bowl weekend
LAS VEGAS — Sixteen children can return home safely thanks to a human trafficking recovery campaign during Super Bowl weekend.
The nonprofit In Our Backyard (IOB) led the search and united over 150 volunteers with law enforcement to find those missing.
» https://dayton247now.com/news/nation-world/human-trafficking-campaign-rescues-16-missing-children-during-super-bowl-weekend-berkshire-hathaway-homeservices-nevada-properties-national-center-for-missing-exploited-children-ncmec-las-vegas  (VIDEO)
» https://mynbc15.com/news/nation-world/human-trafficking-campaign-rescues-16-missing-children-during-super-bowl-weekend-berkshire-hathaway-homeservices-nevada-properties-national-center-for-missing-exploited-children-ncmec-las-vegas  (VIDEO) 

▫️Locals among 12 charged in major Florida child sex crime sting operation
MOBILE, Ala. — Twelve people, several from our area, have been arrested for sex crimes against children. 37 -year-old Clayton Costello from Hoover, 28 year old Telvan Williams from Mobile, and Kris Filmore from Foley were among those charged.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement undercover investigators posed as juveniles online.
https://mynbc15.com/news/local/locals-among-12-charged-in-major-florida-child-sex-crime-sting-operation 

▫️Cleveland man facing 17 human trafficking charges - Ohio Task Force Seeks Tips From Survivors of Alleged Multistate Human Trafficker
CLEVELAND — A Cleveland man, who is accused of advertising sex in a dozen states, is facing 17 felony charges after an investigation by the Northeast Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force. 
Thirty-one-year-old Deondre Inkton was indicted by a Cuyahoga County grand jury on charges of trafficking in persons, compelling prostitution, promoting prostitution, money laundering and possessing criminal tools.
According to the indictment, Inkton is accused of trafficking eight women, but authorities believe there may be additional survivors who have not yet come forward. Those individuals are asked to contact the task force at 216-443-6085. 
» https://fox8.com/news/human-trafficking-local-man-had-4000-ads-officials/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/crime/deondre-inkton-cleveland-human-trafficking-ohio-attorney-general/95-470652d1-5beb-412c-9b83-0b8bd2fb2333
» https://humantrafficking.einnews.com/pr_news/695663249/ohio-task-force-seeks-tips-from-survivors-of-alleged-multistate-human-trafficker 

▫️Ogden school employee arrested after video shows sexual abuse of student, police say
OGDEN, Utah  — Police arrested a former employee of Ben Lomond High School on Monday for allegedly sexually abusing a 16-year-old student.
America Karina Rubio, 21, was booked into Weber County Jail on suspicion of sexual abuse of a minor. She is facing charges of forcible sexual abuse of a minor and forcible sodomy, both first-degree felonies, according to the probable cause affidavit.
» https://www.abc4.com/news/northern-utah/ogden-school-employee-arrested-after-video-shows-sexual-acts-with-student-police-say/ 
»

▫️Texas man arrested, charged with sexual assaults, and police believe there may be more victims
CARROLLTON, Texas — A 25-year-old Texas man who was determined to be HIV positive has been arrested and charged with sexual assault, and evidence suggests there could be additional victims in the DFW metroplex, Houston and Atlanta, according to police.
The Carrollton Police Department (CPD) said it responded to a report of an assault on Feb. 11 after being contacted by a sexual assault survivor receiving treatment at an area hospital.
» https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/carrollton-texas-man-hiv-positive-sexual-assault/287-60518365-c0f3-47e7-a83b-cd96d315f7df
» https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/carrollton-texas-man-hiv-positive-sexual-assault/287-60518365-c0f3-47e7-a83b-cd96d315f7df 
» https://www.fox4news.com/news/carlton-tamaoga-hiv-positive-carrollton-rape-investigation
»

▫️Sheriff says government putting 'people in jeopardy' with border security
Palm Beach County’s sheriff on Wednesday called for stronger security at the U.S.-Mexico border following the arrests of three undocumented immigrants who authorities said kidnapped and sexually assaulted a woman near Lake Worth Beach
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said Andres Felipe Morales, 29, Darinel Ordonez Jjimenez, 30, and Marcos Felipe Ramirez, 31, all from Guatemala, abducted a woman at 1 a.m. Monday in a residential area in the 5000 block of Lake Osborne Drive, which is near John Prince Park, just west of Interstate 95.
The trio then sexually battered her at two separate locations, the sheriff's office said.
» https://www.wptv.com/news/palm-beach-county/region-c-palm-beach-county/palm-beach-county-sheriff-says-federal-government-putting-american-people-in-jeopardy-with-border-security    (VIDEO)
 » https://www.wflx.com/2024/03/13/sheriff-says-government-putting-people-jeopardy-with-border-security/
» https://youtu.be/LGJvUYOjWy0

▫️Texarkana police arrest Matthew Riddle, suspected of child grooming
TEXARKANA, Texas  – Police arrested a man Tuesday suspected of grooming several underage girls in the area.
According to the Texarkana Texas Police Department, Matthew Riddle had access to the girls through their involvement in youth sports activities in the community. Riddle reportedly sent sexually suggestive messages and videos to several girls under the age of 18.
https://www.ktalnews.com/news/crime/texarkana-police-arrest-man-suspected-of-child-grooming/    (VIDEO) 

▫️Teacher Accused of Sexually Abusing 21 Kids Claims She’s Pregnant with Student’s Baby
The Tennessee teacher who claims she’s pregnant with her student’s baby faces nearly a dozen more charges. Law&Crime’s Sierra Gillespie breaks down the latest in Alissa McCommon’s shocking case with trial attorney Anne Bremner.

▫️A Gaston County teacher and pastor was arrested during a human trafficking investigation and charged with attempting to pay for sex, according to the Gaston County Sheriff's Office
Frank Mark Johnson, 65, was charged on Monday with soliciting prostitution, according to the Gaston County Sheriff's Office.
Johnson, who resides in Crowders Mountain, most recently taught middle school science at Community Christian Academy in Bessemer City, NC
Anyone with information on this crime or the current investigation is requested to contact GCSO Sergeant Matt Helton at 704-869-6856.
» https://www.gastongazette.com/story/news/local/2024/03/13/pastor-charged-with-soliciting-prostitution/72947202007/ 
»

▫️Teen escapes after being held hostage for nearly a week, deputies say
BIG BEAR, Calif.  - A 26-year-old California man is accused of kidnapping and raping a teenage girl for nearly a week until she was able to escape and get help.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies say 26-year-old Zackary Dourousseau kidnapped a 17-year-old girl after picking her up March 1 near Big Bear Lake. He allegedly refused to let her out of the car when they got to her home.
https://www.wafb.com/2024/03/14/teen-escapes-after-being-held-hostage-nearly-week-deputies-say/ 

▫️Charges: Willmar massage parlor owner confined employee, told her to perform sex acts on customers
The owner of a massage parlor in Willmar is accused of bringing in an employee from California, then holding her in a room in the business and telling her to perform sexual acts on customers.
Prosecutors have charged 55-year-old Ying He with soliciting or inducing a person to practice prostitution, disorderly house and fifth-degree assault. Her attorney told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS she couldn’t comment on pending cases.
https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/charges-willmar-massage-parlor-owner-confined-employee-told-her-to-perform-sex-acts-on-customers/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Bay Area man busted in child sex sting arrested after going on the run: ‘He’s a filthy-talking rascal'
MADIERA BEACH, Fla. - A man Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd describes as a ‘filthy-talking rascal’ has been arrested after going on the lam following a multi-agency child sex sting.
John Adams, 61, of Dunedin, was arrested on Wednesday, a day after Judd held a press conference with several different agencies about an undercover operation that targeted predators looking to have sex with children. 
During the press conference, Judd said that seven men were arrested during the 8-day operation, but law enforcement officers were unable to apprehend Adams. 
https://www.fox13news.com/news/bay-area-man-busted-in-child-sex-sting-arrested-after-going-on-the-run-hes-a-filthy-talking-rascal 

▫️The News4JAX I-TEAM has obtained records showing for years, police didn’t thoroughly investigate allegations against a Jacksonville man now charged with operating a child sex trafficking ring
Records uncovered by the News4JAX I-TEAM show from 2010 to 2015, multiple people told police Duane Sikes was abusing boys, but JSO’s own records show some of those allegations were never followed up on.
Sikes is now charged with three counts of child sex trafficking and 50 counts of producing child sexual abuse material.
» https://www.news4jax.com/video/local-news/2024/03/13/jso-failed-to-follow-up-on-multiple-complaints-of-child-sex-abuse-against-man-years-before-he-was-charged/ 
»

▫️Florida Appeals Court Rejects Arguments By Man Who Smuggled 2 Teens From Texas Border
Astate appeals court Wednesday rejected arguments by a man who pleaded no contest to charges of human smuggling after a traffic stop in December 2020 in Northwest Florida.
A Santa Rosa County sheriff’s deputy stopped a car Frank Leija Moreno was driving on Interstate 10, and authorities later determined that two passengers, a 14-year-old youth and a 17-year-old youth, had come to the United States from Guatemala.
They told authorities that Moreno was driving them to Florida, where they planned to work to pay off debts associated with coming to the U.S. Moreno was initially charged with two counts of human trafficking and two counts of human smuggling.
https://www.tampafp.com/florida-appeals-court-rejects-arguments-by-man-who-smuggled-2-teens-from-texas-border/ 

▫️Sex Traffickers Convicted of Cross-Country Exploitation of a Minor
MIAMI – On March 8, a federal trial jury in Miami found Xavier Latrell Smith, 34, and Jayla Denice Welch, 22, both of Texas, guilty of carrying out a sex trafficking conspiracy involving a minor victim.
Smith and Welch were convicted of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking of a minor, transporting a minor to engage in sexual activity, and coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.  In addition, Smith was convicted of two counts of commission of a sex offense by a registered sex offender.
Smith faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
» https://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2024/03/13/sex-traffickers-convicted-of-cross-country-exploitation-of-a-minor/
» https://cbs12.com/news/local/couple-indicted-for-cross-country-sex-trafficking-involving-minor-xavier-latrell-smith-jayla-denice-welch-department-of-justice-miami-texas-florida-march-13-2024 

▫️Derwood church teacher who assaulted young girls was deported twice, charged with multiple sex crimes: ICE
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. - A church teacher accused of sexually abusing multiple young girls in his congregation in Montgomery County was twice deported from the U.S. and was in the country illegally at the time of the assaults, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 
Ervin Jeovany Alfaro Lopez was arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual abuse of a minor on Monday, March 11. 
Alfaro Lopez is a citizen of El Salvador. 
https://www.fox5dc.com/news/derwood-church-teacher-who-assaulted-young-girls-was-deported-twice-charged-with-multiple-sex-crimes-ice 

▫️‘Where’s My Daddy?’: Cops Rescue 2-Year-Old From Alleged Kidnapper
Bodycam footage shows Ohio police rescuing a two-year-old from an alleged kidnapper after tracking down a stolen truck on March 1. The Akron Police Department arrested 54-year-old Larry Spence on charges of kidnapping, abduction, and grand theft of a motor vehicle. The young boy was unharmed and reunited with his parents. Law&Crime’s Elizabeth Millner breaks down how police swiftly reacted to an AMBER Alert and rescued the child.

▫️Jeremy Williams pleads guilty to capital murder in Kamarie Holland’s death
The Russell County man accused of brutally killing and raping a five-year-old girl pled guilty to capital murder charges on Wednesday afternoon.
Jeremy Williams also pled guilty to videoing sex with child under 16, knowingly having sex with a corpse and human trafficking. Williams’ plea carries the possibility of the death penalty.
» https://www.wtvm.com/2024/03/13/mother-kamarie-holland-pleads-guilty-human-sex-trafficking/   (VIDEO)
» https://www.wrbl.com/news/local-news/kamarie-holland/breaking-mother-of-kamarie-holland-pleads-guilty-to-human-sex-trafficking/ 

▫️Undercover sting reveals Harrisburg man attempted to have sex with 14-year-old
A Harrisburg man was sentenced Monday after an undercover sting operation found he attempted to have sex with a 14-year-old.
According to the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office, 35-year-old Brette Giles responded to an ad online, where he spoke with an undercover detective who was posing as a family member of a 14-year-old girl.
Giles agreed to pay $100 for sex with the 14-year-old. He arrived at the agreed upon location and was arrested on scene, the DA wrote in a press release.
https://local21news.com/news/local/undercover-sting-reveals-harrisburg-man-attempted-to-have-sex-with-14-year-old 

▫️Derwood church teacher who assaulted young girls was deported twice, charged with multiple sex crimes: ICE
https://www.fox5dc.com/news/derwood-church-teacher-who-assaulted-young-girls-was-deported-twice-charged-with-multiple-sex-crimes-ice 

▫️Disgraced Mormon bishop, 64, is FINALLY caught after two months on the run from sex abuse charges including 'on his daughter, now 38, on a school trip - which was covered up when the church paid her $300,000'
A disgraced Mormon bishop accused of sexually abusing his daughter and arranging for her to receive a $300,000 hush money payment has been charged with child sexual abuse after two months on the run.
Idaho dentist John Goodrich, 64, is accused of abusing his daughter Chelsea while accompanying her on a school trip in Virginia when she was a child, court filings show.
He faces four felony counts of rape by force, threat or intimidation, forcible sodomy, and two counts of felony aggravated sexual battery by a parent of a child.
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13196821/Mormon-bishop-church-sexual-abuse-daughter-school-trip.html
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13194139/Former-Mormon-bishop-highlighted-AP-investigation-arrested-felony-child-sex-abuse-charges.html 

▫️Video: FOX23 Investigates: Local nonprofit aims to stop sex trafficking, needing help to further mission
A year ago, we showed you a local girls home that rescues girls from sex trafficking and exploitation. It's run by a nonprofit organization called the Demand Project. Now, we have an update about changes happening there and a surprising connection about a similar girls' home on the other side of the world in the Philippines.
» https://www.fox23.com/news/fox23-investigates/fox23-investigates-local-nonprofit-aims-to-stop-sex-trafficking-needing-help-to-further-mission/article_b0aec6a0-e17b-11ee-bc7c-8f241a565b90.html
»

▫️10 GET buses unveiled with new human trafficking campaign, survivors share their stories
Kern County is making it clear there's zero tolerance for human trafficking, as City, County, and Federal Law Enforcement came together to unveil the latest campaign to fight this problem.
» https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbbkDsSXpKs   (VIDEO)
» https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/project-rescue-campaign-kern-county-spearheads-fight-against-human-trafficking
» https://www.bakersfield.com/news/local-collaboration-marshals-resources-against-human-trafficking/article_03c8eb5a-e194-11ee-92bc-5b70c40694ac.html 

▫️MO Sen. Mike Moon proposes expanding death penalty to certain sex crimes against children
Abill that would add child sex trafficking and statutory rape to the crimes eligible for the death penalty was debated Monday in a Missouri Senate committee — despite conflicting with U.S. Supreme Court precedent.
The legislation is sponsored by state Sen. Mike Moon, an Ash Grove Republican who said Monday that one of the “principal purposes of government” is to “punish evil.”
Rape of children under 14 and child trafficking of children under 12 would be crimes eligible for the death penalty under his bill.
“And what’s more evil than taking the innocence of the child during the act of a rape? Children are in large part defenseless and an act such as rape can kill the child emotionally,” he said.
https://www.news-leader.com/story/news/politics/2024/03/12/missouri-bill-would-allow-death-penalty-for-sex-crimes-against-kids/72936673007/ 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️16-year-old human trafficking victim rescued, suspect arrested
ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office has made an arrest in connection with a human trafficking investigation.
On Wednesday, deputies said they were conducting an undercover operation into human trafficking and prostitution in Salisbury.
While conducting the investigation, they located a 16-year-old girl who was reported missing from Charlotte. The girl told deputies that she had been forced into prostitution by a 33-year-old convicted felon on parole.
» https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/crime/human-trafficking-arrest-rowan-county-north-carolina-teen-rescued/275-95160397-8bb2-488d-876a-7a61d0a7ab77  (VIDEO)  
» https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/16-year-old-human-trafficking-victim-rescued-suspect-arrested/MNI26KOUKBEKFEM24RXB7XWZQ4/ 

▫️Distraught Lexington mom says daughter escaped attempted kidnapping in backyard
LEXINGTON - Police are investigating an attempted kidnapping in Lexington. A 9-year-old girl playing in her backyard on Wood Street said a man grabbed her from behind and placed a hand over her mouth. 
"So, she couldn't scream for help," the child's distraught mother told WBZ-TV.  
Lexington police got the call about the attempted abduction at about 2 p.m. Thursday afternoon. The girl was able to break free and run away. The suspect also ran away.
Police said the only description of the suspect is a man in all black wearing a black ski mask.
It's a terrifying description the mom never thought she would hear from her daughter who has autism. The mom was at work, but the little girl knows karate and used her skills to break free and run.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/lexington-police-attempted-child-abduction/
»

▫️Man accused of raping disabled teen at Rockland hotel used as migrant shelter
ROCKLAND - A man was arrested and charged with child rape at a hotel in Rockland being used to house migrants.
Cory Alvarez, 26, was arraigned Thursday on one count of aggravated rape of a child. He's being held without bail pending the outcome of a dangerousness hearing next week. Alvarez's defense attorney said he came here from Haiti and is part of the migrant system.  
» https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/rockland-comfort-inn-migrant-shelter-child-rape-cory-alvarez/
»

▫️2 Broward County teachers arrested for sexual misconduct involving children
Two teachers in Broward County were arrested this week for alleged sexual misconduct involving children.
https://youtu.be/9A91qQRRy7w   @ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING

 

▫️Long Island bus driver, 47, charged with sexually abusing young girl for MONTHS
A bus driver in Long Island has been charged over claims he sexually abused a 12-year-old girl multiple times over the course of 17 months. 
Miguel Enrique Diaz, 47, was arrested at his home in Bay Shore on Wednesday night and faces one count of first-degree course of sexual conduct against a child, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
He worked as a bus driver for Suffolk Transportation Services and served Bay Shore Middle School and Brook Elementary School, according to Suffolk County Police.
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13198753/long-island-school-bus-driver-sexual-assault-girl.html
» https://nypost.com/2024/03/14/us-news/long-island-school-bus-driver-charged-with-sexually-abusing-child/ 

▫️Teen Escapes Alleged Captor After Being Held Hostage for 6 Days in California
Authorities have charged a Sugarloaf, Calif., man for kidnapping and rape after a teenager escaped from his home, where she alleges she was held captive for six days and assaulted.
Zackary Dourousseau, 26, was arrested on March 7 by deputies from Big Bear Sheriff’s Department, the police said in a statement. He has been charged with kidnapping, false imprisonment and statutory rape. 
https://people.com/teen-escapes-alleged-captor-after-being-held-hostage-in-california-8609332 

▫️Man arrested after undercover operation reveals forced prostitution
The girl was reported missing out of Charlotte at some point in the past. On Wednesday, detectives with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office conducted an undercover operation into human trafficking and prostitution in Salisbury when they located the girl, according to a release from the sheriff’s office.
The juvenile was the victim of forced prostitution that had been organized by a 33-year-old convicted felon who was on parole, said the release.
Jail records list 33-year-old Kadeem Zelique Williams as being arrested on Thursday and charged with felony promoting the prostitution of a minor or a person with mental disabilities, felony assault by strangulation and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
https://www.salisburypost.com/2024/03/15/man-arrested-after-undercover-operation-reveals-forced-prostitution/ 

▫️2 arrested in child sex abuse case in Adelanto, SBSD says
A man and woman from Adelanto face child abuse charges after the man allegedly sexually abused two minors.
Carlos Omar Moreno, 37, and Maria Del Carmen Esquivel, 43, were arrested Tuesday, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
Moreno faces charges of lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14 and sexual penetration with a foreign object. Esquivel, meanwhile, faces an allegation of child abuse.
» https://ktla.com/news/local-news/2-arrested-in-child-sex-abuse-case-in-adelanto-sbsd-says/
» https://local.nixle.com/alert/10776875/ 

▫️(UPDATE) Florida couple forced 32 women into sex trade, branded victims with tattoos: Moody
TAMPA, Fla.  — A Florida couple was accused of operating a human trafficking ring with more than 32 victims, according to Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution.
Officials said a Homeland Security investigation found that Marquett James and Alyson Marquett “recruited and forced” their victims into commercial sex work in Florida and across the United States.
“Through coercion and violence, a Florida couple operated a massive human trafficking ring that victimized more than 30 women,” Attorney General Ashley Moody said. “The couple branded these women with tattoos, took control of their finances, and forced them to engage in hundreds of sex acts. Working with law enforcement we shut down this human trafficking ring and rescued victims.”
James and Marquett were both charged with human trafficking, conspiracy to commit human trafficking, RICO, sexual battery, and money laundering, among additional felony charges.
https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/florida-couple-forced-32-women-into-sex-trade-branded-victims-with-tattoos-moody/    (VIDEO) 

▫️Suspect charged with kidnapping after teen found at Kan. motel
ATCHISON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect on alleged child sex crimes have included a new charge.
On Thursday, Atchison Police arrested Osias W. Everson, 20, Deer Lodge Montana, on a State of Missouri warrant charging him with ‘child kidnapping," according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.
Everson remains in the Atchison County Jail, already in custody on a charge of rape in connection to an investigation by Atchison Police.
https://hayspost.com/posts/dbf3a5a8-b416-4ff6-85ac-b0b348279f6d 

▫️Man charged for rape, kidnapping in Berks County, police say
A Pennsylvania man was arrested after police said he kidnapped and sexually assaulted a young girl in Berks County.
Liam Wilkinson, 24, of Blandon has been arrested and charged with rape, kidnapping and firearms-related offenses, police said.
https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/girl-escapes-assault-leads-to-mans-arrest-in-berks-county-police-say/3803349/ 

▫️Howland man indicted for alleged possession of sexually explicit images of babies, toddlers
The Trumbull County Grand Jury has handed up a twelve-count indictment against a Howland man arrested as part of an investigation into sex crimes involving babies and toddlers.
Jeffrey Barton, 36, faces four counts of pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor and eight counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material.
The indictment details the content of the alleged material including sexually explicit images of of infants, as well as others for children as young as three years old and as old as 10 years old.
https://www.wfmj.com/story/50570182/howland-man-indicted-for-alleged-possession-of-sexually-explicit-images-of-babies-toddlers 

▫️More arrests made as Chesterfield Police investigate illicit massage businesses
RICHMOND, Va.  - More arrests have been made as Chesterfield Police continues its investigation into illicit massage businesses in the county.
On March 8, multiple agencies, including the Human Trafficking Task Force, conducted an undercover operation at Ocean Spa and Massage on Hull Street Road. Officers arrested Jinlan Liao, 61, Jihong Zhang, 52 and Fang Wang, 57, who are all employees at Ocean Spa. All three are facing several charges, including keeping/residing in a bawdy place and prostitution.
» https://www.12onyourside.com/2024/03/14/more-arrests-made-chesterfield-police-investigate-illicit-massage-businesses/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/chesterfield-county/three-employees-of-chesterfield-massage-parlor-charged-after-investigation/ 

▫️Culpeper Police Department Arrests Pediatric Hospitalist for Solicitation of a Minor
After an approximately three month investigation, Detectives obtained charges for one count of felony Solicitation of Sexual Acts with a Minor by Electronic Means and two counts of misdemeanor Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor via Sexual Acts, naming Pediatric Hospitalist Deepak Patel as the offender. 
Officers responded to the hotel and reviewed video that showed the juvenile left the hotel with an unidentified male in a vehicle. The juvenile was later located by the Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office at his residence in Culpeper County.
https://crimewatch.net/us/va/culpeper-county/culpeper-pd/117322/post/culpeper-police-department-arrests-pediatric-hospitalist-solicitation-minor 

▫️Massachusetts man convicted of attempted sex trafficking of a child
BOSTON – A federal jury in Boston convicted a Waltham man of attempted sex trafficking. Misael Fabian Medina, 38, was convicted of attempted sex trafficking of a child and attempted coercion and enticement.
“Medina planned to sexually abuse a 12-year-old girl. He negotiated with a trafficker and arrived at the hotel ready to assault a child. But instead of a trafficker, an undercover HSI special agent was waiting for him,” said Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England.
https://www.wwlp.com/news/crime/massachusetts-man-convicted-of-attempted-sex-trafficking-of-a-child/ 

▫️2 men plead guilty in child molestation cases
Two men — one a convicted sex offender and a second who recorded himself having sex with a 4-year-old child — pleaded guilty this week to federal charges.
Chad M. Rabon, 34, pleaded guilty March 13 in U.S. District Court in Charleston to four criminal offenses — two counts of attempt to transfer obscene material to a child and two counts of committing a felony sexual offense with a child as a registered sex offender.
Michele Mancino, 41, pleaded guilty March 14 to a charge related to the production of child sexual abuse materials. 
Rabon and Mancino will be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Richard M. Gergel in separate hearings at later dates.
https://www.postandcourier.com/news/child-sexual-abuse-exploitation-production-charleston-federal-charges/article_be23186a-e223-11ee-b140-bf819da29969.html 

▫️Florida woman tried selling toddler daughter for $500, left her in street after no buyers: police
A Florida woman tried to sell her 18-month-old daughter for $500 and then left her on the street when she couldn't find any buyers, police said.
Jessica Woods, 33, was arrested and charged with child neglect and abandonment, selling or surrendering minor for property or money, and three counts of child abuse after the incident that unfolded outside a business in Palatka.
»

▫️Arraignment hearing Thursday for suspects in Defiance human trafficking case
An arraignment hearing for all three suspects will take place at 8:30 a.m. Thursday. All are expected to plead not guilty to holding a man captive for months.
» https://t.me/ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING/12821
»

▫️Harrisburg man sentenced up to 10 years in prison for trying to pay a 14-year-old for sex
A Harrisburg man will spend up to 10 years in prison for trying to purchase sex with a 14-year-old girl during a Lancaster County Human Trafficking Task Force sting.
Brette Lamont Giles-White Jr., 35, pleaded guilty to patronizing victims of human trafficking and four related charges and was sentenced Monday after officers arrested him Jan. 27 at an East Lampeter Township hotel on the 2600 block of Lincoln Highway.
Lancaster County President Judge David Ashworth sentenced Giles to 1½ to 10 years in prison. He must register as a sex offender for life.
This is the fourth time this year that a task force sting operation has yielded a conviction. Previous convictions include those of Grzegorz Marzec, Tanner Iskra and Benjamin Gill.
https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/harrisburg-man-sentenced-up-to-10-years-in-prison-for-trying-to-pay-a-14/article_9818febe-e237-11ee-8c6b-433d0be2daf1.html 

▫️'Depraved and disgusting': Former police chief in SC sentenced to 15 years for 'sextortion' scheme
COLUMBIA — A former police chief in Lexington County was sentenced Thursday to 15 years in prison for threatening and sexually abusing members of his own family to collect nude photos and videos from them through a false identity.
William “Billy” Parker, 67, pleaded guilty in October to cyberstalking resulting in serious bodily injury and communicating threats with the intent to extort.
Under the aliases of “Willie Boner” or “John Wayne,” the married father of two called, emailed and texted six women in his family in 2021 and 2022, telling them to send him pornographic photos and videos of themselves.
https://scdailygazette.com/2024/03/14/depraved-and-disgusting-former-police-chief-in-sc-sentenced-to-15-years-for-sextortion-scheme/ 

▫️Laredo CBP officers apprehend two men wanted on felony warrants from the U.S., Mexico for sex offenses involving children | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Guillermo Ocampo Jr., 39, a U.S. citizen, was the subject of an outstanding felony arrest warrant for aggravated sexual assault of a child issued by Bell County Sheriff’s Office in Belton, TX. Antonio de Jesus Rivera Rodriguez, 35, a Mexican citizen, was the subject of an outstanding felony arrest warrant in Mexico for child exploitation material issued by the State Prosecutor’s Office in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.
https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/laredo-cbp-officers-apprehend-two-men-wanted-felony-warrants-us-mexico 

▫️ICE clashes with Montgomery County over recent arrests
U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that a Derwood Church teacher arrested and charged with sexually abusing at least four girls between 2016-2018 had been deported twice before.
Many have blamed Montgomery County's "sanctuary jurisdiction" policies for the release of dangerous criminals back into the streets, but officials insist otherwise. 
https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/crime/recent-arrests-undocumented-immigrants-sparks-clash-between-ice-and-montgomery/65-a59a595b-ac6c-40fb-a1a2-936269e0c115 

▫️Report: CT doctor found dead after FBI sting involving 15-year-old
A Hartford Healthcare doctor who was found dead Wednesday after he was arrested last week in an FBI sting operation when he showed up at a Meriden hotel to meet who he thought was a 15-year-old girl, according to a police report.
State police said Magaldi was pronounced dead at the scene and the initial investigation showed no criminal aspect. His cause and manner of death were pending an autopsy.
https://www.newstimes.com/capitalregion/article/hartford-healthcare-doctor-john-magaldi-dead-19005328.php 

▫️SEXUALLLY VIOLENT PREDATOR TO BE RELEASED IN CAMPO
Yesterday, Sheriff’s deputies with the Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement (SAFE) Task Force went door to door in Campo to advise residents that Alan Earl James, a registered sexually violent predator (SVP) with the state and county, will be released into their neighborhood at 1138 Custer Road, Campo.
The SVP classification is based on felony convictions including several counts of child molest and kidnapping dating back to 1981 and 1985. 
» https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/sexuallly-violent-predator-be-released-campo
» https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2024/03/14/man-classified-as-sexually-violent-predator-released-to-supervised-home-in-campo/ 

▫️US warned of second wave of Venezuelan criminals coming over border
A second wave of Venezuela's worst criminals could soon be rushing over the US border after being released from prison in their home country. DailyMail.com was first to report on the first wave of Venezuelan gangsters to cross the border and filter into American cities - including henchmen for dictator Nicolas Maduro and members of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/galleries/article-13196659/US-warned-second-wave-Venezuelan-criminals-coming-border.html 

▫️Gaetz subpoenaed in defamation suit by woman he allegedly had sex with as minor
Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz on Thursday was served a subpoena to sit for a deposition in a civil lawsuit that involves allegations he had sex with a 17-year old-girl, sources tell ABC News, as part of a suit brought by a friend of the congressman against the young woman and others.
Gaetz was issued the subpoena, which has not been previously reported, by attorneys representing the woman who is now in her 20s and was at the center of a years-long investigation by the Justice Department into allegations that the Florida congressman had sex with her when she was a minor, sources said.
» https://abcnews.go.com/US/rep-matt-gaetz-subpoenaed-defamation-suit-woman-allegedly/story?id=108098265
» https://www.forbes.com/sites/mollybohannon/2024/03/14/matt-gaetz-subpoenaed-by-woman-he-allegedly-had-sex-with-when-she-was-a-minor-report-says/ 

▫️Youth4Abolition seeking solutions to end human trafficking
The Department of Justice reports that the number of persons prosecuted for human trafficking more than doubled from 2011 to 2021. North Carolina ranks in the top 10 for human trafficking, with Charlotte being the hot spot.
Youth4Abolition (Y4A) is a youth-led prevention and awareness program that is working to end human trafficking through education.
Teens involved in Y4A shared their knowledge with their peers and communities about how to protect themselves at Marvin Ridge High School on Thursday.
» https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/crime/youth4abolition-human-trafficking-solutions-carolinas/275-d3ca800c-e24c-4afc-9d07-44746de4b6d0
»

▫️The Salvation Army of Elk County to host Anti-Human Trafficking Symposium
RIDGWAY — The Salvation Army of Elk County and The Salvation Army LIGHT Project is partnering with CAPSEA, Elk County Children and Youth Services (CYS) serving Elk and Cameron counties and Justice at Work, to present an Anti-Human Trafficking Symposium at Sacred Heart Parish Center, 337 Center Street (rear entrance) in St. Marys on Wednesday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is required and is available online at salvationarmywpa.org/ahtelk
https://www.thecourierexpress.com/news/the-salvation-army-of-elk-county-to-host-anti-human-trafficking-symposium/article_f852780a-e147-11ee-8058-8fa0ef2d43eb.html 

▫️Trapped on Wisconsin farms: The hidden plight of trafficked workers
In Wisconsin, and around the country, immigrant rights advocates and law enforcement agencies have been stepping up efforts to bring labor trafficking cases to light, forcing the issue into public consciousness. 
A year ago, a coalition of Wisconsin advocates and state law enforcement officials announced a joint effort to investigate and prosecute these cases, in which employers and contractors use force, fraud and coercion to make workers stay in jobs they are desperate to escape.
https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/03/14/trapped-on-wisconsin-farms-the-hidden-plight-of-trafficked-workers/ 

▫️Tackling Human Trafficking & Supporting Survivors For Women's History Month
Senior Director of ALEC's Health and Human Services Task Force Brooklyn Roberts & Senior Director of Federalism, Homeland Security and International Relations Karla Jones speak with Kansas State Representatives Carrie Barth and Rebecca Schmoe about Kansas' attempts to prevent and assist the victims of human smuggling.

▫️Coastal Children’s Advocacy Center to host 2nd Annual Stand Up. Speak Out. Conference to Raise Awareness and Support the Prevention of Child Abuse
Coastal Children’s Advocacy Center (CCAC) will host its second annual all-day child abuse awareness conference entitled “Stand Up.Speak Out.” on April 19 at the Armstrong Center in Savannah, Georgia. 
https://www.savannahbusinessjournal.com/news/nonprofits/march-15---coastal-children-s-advocacy-center-to-host-2nd-annual-stand-up/article_9cb685da-e215-11ee-b728-cf3c2f2cff9b.html 

▫️Grants awarded to organization that helps young sex trafficking victims
An Alabama nonprofit organization that assists minor females who are victims of sex trafficking has just received a financial boost.
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded two grants totaling $54,596 to Camille Place, an organization that provides shelter and care to girls under 19 from throughout the state who have been victims of sexual exploitation and human trafficking. The services Camille Place provides include therapy, accredited education and recovery from addiction.
https://www.fox10tv.com/2024/03/14/grants-awarded-organization-that-helps-young-sex-trafficking-victims/ 

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[Pompeii]

Whos' in the News?

▫️TSA worker from RDU charged with human trafficking in child sex sting operation
A TSA worker from Raleigh-Durham International Airport was arrested in Florida last month in a child sex sting operation.
Edmundo Dasilva, 37, of Holly Springs, is charged with multiple felonies, including human trafficking, use of a computer to solicit a guardian, traveling to meet a minor and use of a two-way communication device to commit a felony.
The sheriff said Dasilva thought he was paying a father to have sex with his daughter. Dasilva and seven other suspects were arrested in the Polk County Sheriff's Office 8-day-long undercover investigation targeting child sex predators between Feb. 22 and Feb. 29. The other suspects all live in Florida.
» https://www.wral.com/story/tsa-worker-from-rdu-charged-with-human-trafficking-in-child-sex-sting-operation/21331373/  (VIDEO) 
»

▫️21 arrested for solicitation of prostitution in Tarrant County
FORT WORTH – A Tarrant County employee and two men who worked for the Army Corps of Engineers and Texas Health Resources were among 21 arrested for solicitation of prostitution during a two-day sting late last month, authorities said Friday.
The arrests came when the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office Human Trafficking Unit and its partner organization, The Net, conducted a "sex trafficking demand suppression operation," a news release said.
The Net is a sex trafficking exploitation non-profit organization.
https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/21-arrested-for-solicitation-of-prostitution-in-tarrant-county/ 

▫️Man accused of 'pimping underage girls' while out on bond in another human trafficking case, one survivor
BATON ROUGE — A man out on bond in a juvenile human trafficking case has been arrested in a new case again involving teen girls.
Kevontae Reed was booked Thursday with human trafficking and indecent behavior with juveniles. Police said a trafficking victim was rescued during the investigation that led to Reed's current arrest.
She said she met Reed when she was 12, and that as recently as February she had been forced into sex for money at Baton Rouge hotels. Reed posted online ads and kept the money paid for those encounters, police records said.
» https://www.wafb.com/2024/03/15/repeat-offender-arrested-charges-related-human-trafficking-victim-rescued/
» https://www.wbrz.com/news/man-accused-of-pimping-underage-girls-while-out-on-bond-in-another-human-trafficking-case/
» https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/crime_police/baker-man-arrested-accused-of-human-trafficking/article_7ec7c948-e2f7-11ee-b20f-4f93caa28ae8.html 

▫️Grant High School educator arrested on multiple counts of crimes against children
GRANT PARISH, La.  – An investigation by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office led to the arrest of a Ball man for charges related to acts while employed as a teacher at Grant High School.
Dakota Ray, 27 years old, of Ball, was arrested for 27 counts of Possession of Child Pornography, 28 counts of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, Prohibited Sexual Conduct between an Educator and a Student and Malfeasance in Office.
https://www.cenlanow.com/local-news/grant-high-school-educator-arrested-on-multiple-counts-of-crimes-against-children/ 

▫️Ongoing Joint Investigation Leads to Human Trafficking Arrest
NASHVILLE – An ongoing joint investigation into a multinational criminal organization linked to human trafficking in Middle Tennessee has led to the arrest of a second person from Murfreesboro.
In the fall of 2023, TBI special agents assigned to TBI’s specialized Human Trafficking Unit developed information that led to the arrest of Yilibeth Rivero De Caldera on charges connected to the trafficking of Hispanic female immigrants in Nashville for commercial sex.
On Wednesday, TBI, with the partnership of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Metro Nashville Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service arrested Kleiver Daniel Moto Rivero in Nashville.  Moto Rivero is a confirmed member of the criminal organization Tren de Aragua with ties to Venezuela.
» https://tbinewsroom.com/2024/03/15/ongoing-joint-investigation-leads-to-human-trafficking-arrest/
» https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/investigation-into-middle-tennessee-human-trafficking-ring-results-in-another-arrest/
»

▫️Homeland Security agent explains scope of human trafficking in the Lehigh Valley
BETHLEHEM, Pa.— The Homeland Security special agent responsible for some high-profile arrests in the Lehigh Valley, delivered a keynote speech at Hotel Bethlehem on Friday on human trafficking.
The luncheon was organized by Bloom, a women's sheltering organization that does extensive work with victims of human trafficking, sometimes in partnership with law enforcement which has included Special Agent Kathryn Murray.
Due to the secretive nature of the "business" of trafficking, as Murray called it, there is no exact statistic on how much of it exists in our region. According to the presentation, since 2020 there have been 18 human trafficking investigations and 35-40 for child exploitation.
These investigations have yielded 10 prosecutions for human trafficking. Murray did not say how many there were for child exploitation cases, though she did say 50-60 victims have been at least identified.
https://www.lehighvalleynews.com/local-news/homeland-security-agent-explains-scope-of-human-trafficking-in-the-lehigh-valley 

▫️Lubbock man caught in state-wide predator sting now facing federal charge
LUBBOCK, Texas — A Lubbock man who was caught in a state-wide operation that targets predators, Charlie Ivins, 28, was indicted for Attempted Enticement of a Minor, federal court records obtained on Friday showed.
Federal court documents showed Ivins was accused of trying to persuade or coerce an underage child to engage in sexual activity. Court records stated Ivins was ordered to forfeit his phone.
https://www.everythinglubbock.com/news/local-news/lubbock-man-caught-in-state-wide-predator-sting-now-facing-federal-charge/ 

▫️Convicted sex offender arrested on child porn charges, officials say
HAMMOND, La. - A previously convicted sex offender is back behind bars for allegedly having child pornography.
La. Attorney General Liz Murrill announced David Hollingsworth, 58, of Hammond, was arrested on Thursday, March 14, on seven counts of pornography involving juveniles and booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail.
The investigation into Hollingsworth, a previously convicted sex offender, began as a result of cyber tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, according to the attorney general’s office.
https://www.wafb.com/2024/03/15/convicted-sex-offender-arrested-child-porn-charges-officials-say/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Primera man arrested on child sex abuse charges after discovery of ‘homemade’ videotapes
A 75-year-old man is behind bars following a Friday morning raid in connection with a sexual abuse of a child investigation, according to Primera’s police chief.
Rosendo Camarillo Jimenez was arrested on charges of aggravated sexual assault, continuous sexual abuse of a child and sexual performance of a child. According to Primera police Chief Manuel Treviño, Jimenez was arrested following a raid at a residence at the 17000 block of Kika de la Garza Circle.
The raid was conducted after the victim — identified as someone who was under the age of 14 when the assault occurred — rep
https://www.krgv.com/news/primera-man-arrested-on-child-sex-abuse-charges-after-discovery-of-homemade-videotapes/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Arkansas State Police arrest two in separate child porn cases
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Two Arkansas men were taken into custody by Arkansas State Police and are facing charges related to child pornography in separate incidents.
On March 8, 27-year-old Gregory Lynn Westbrook of Benton was arrested and charged with 250 counts of the distributing, possessing, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child, according to investigators.
38-year-old Jonathan McClean was arrested at his job and taken to the Miller County Detention Center, where he is facing 100 counts of distributing, possessing, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.
https://www.myarklamiss.com/news/arkansas-news/arkansas-state-police-arrest-two-in-separate-child-porn-cases/ 

▫️Man arrested for child molestation, accused of taking girl to north Georgia job sites
RABUN COUNTY, Ga. — A Habersham County man was arrested Wednesday for molesting a child after an investigation by two sheriff’s office in North Georgia.
According to the Rabun County Sheriff’s Office, David Roy Summers, 52 of Cornelia, sexually battered and molested a young girl while in a position of trust with her family.
The sheriff’s office said investigators received a complaint from the child’s parents in early March.
https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/man-arrested-child-molestation-accused-taking-girl-north-georgia-job-sites/L3XAY7APOJEX7HBFWNI5JAN55M/ 

▫️Man Sentenced for Sex Trafficking of 15-Year-Old Girl in San Diego
A man arrested in San Diego amid a nationwide sex trafficking sting for recruiting a 15-year-old girl to have her engage in prostitution was sentenced Friday to just over four years in prison.
Prosecutors said Wesley Allen Neely posted online advertisements featuring the girl and in August of 2022, dropped the minor off at a local hotel, where she had arranged to meet up with someone who would pay her for sex.
https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2024/03/15/man-sentenced-for-sex-trafficking-of-15-year-old-girl-in-san-diego/ 

▫️ (UPDATE)  Missing Charlotte teen found in Salisbury human trafficking ring, deputies say
A missing teenager from Charlotte was rescued from forced prostitution and human trafficking in Rowan County, investigators announced. 
Rowan County deputies were working an undercover investigation into prostitution in Salisbury on March 13 when an agent found a 16-year-old who was reported missing from Charlotte. The girl was forced into prostitution by a 33-year-old convicted felon who was out of prison on parole, investigators allege. 
The Rowan County Sheriff's Office says it will hold a news conference at 2 p.m. on Monday, March 18 with an update on the case.
Jail records list 33-year-old Kadeem Zelique Williams as being arrested on Thursday and charged with felony promoting the prostitution of a minor or a person with mental disabilities, felony assault by strangulation and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Williams is listed as being in the Rowan County Detention Center under a $250,000 bond.
» https://www.salisburypost.com/2024/03/15/man-arrested-after-undercover-operation-reveals-forced-prostitution/
» https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/9-investigates-rescued-teen-girl-saved-human-trafficking/MNI26KOUKBEKFEM24RXB7XWZQ4/   (VIDEO)  
»

▫️Children’s pastor in Jasper under FBI investigation, fired from church
A Jasper church has sent a letter to their congregation saying Aaron Lockman has been fired as Kids Pastor due to a “significant moral failure.”
Officials with the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office confirm they assisted with the investigation, but it is a case from the Evansville FBI Office.
» https://www.14news.com/2024/03/15/childrens-pastor-jasper-under-fbi-investigation-fired-church/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/childrens-pastor-in-jasper-under-fbi-investigation-fired-from-church/ 

▫️New Mexico man sentenced to 60 years for enticement of minors following HSI investigation | ICE
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — An Alamogordo man was sentenced to 60 years in prison for enticement of a minor on March 14 following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The Alamogordo Police Department assisted with the case.
Alfonso Salcido Herrera, 46, pleaded guilty in federal court to the same charge on March 30, 2023.
According to publicly available court records, beginning in 2019 and continuing until May 2022, Herrera groomed and repeatedly sexually abused four children who were between nine and 13 years old at the time.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/new-mexico-man-sentenced-60-years-enticement-minors-following-hsi-investigation 

▫️DeSantis signs new legislation to curb illegal immigration, sends message to Haitian refugees
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference Friday morning at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Winter Haven.
» https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOmoO8FoFpI
» https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TsAxgnH2vk

 

▫️Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Event, Mar 17 | New Canaan, CT 
Talmadge Hill is honored to host an event on Sunday, March 17, spotlighting one of the most challenging issues of our times, child trafficking. Carter Via, Cheryl Bundy, and Katherine Silvan will be facilitating a conversation with Lieutenant Jerry Junes, Family Services Unit of the Stamford Police Department. There will be a short video from a survivor that sheds lights on what domestic trafficking really is and how we can help spot it in our youth.
https://patch.com/connecticut/newcanaan/calendar/event/20240317/a70724e7-1a57-43f4-b50b-36e31a44d081/anti-human-trafficking-awareness-event 

▫️Free one-day human trafficking awareness class
California Highway Patrol investigator Rick Geiss will host a one-day free class on human trafficking awareness May 16 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Allan Hancock College. The class will be held at the college, 800 S. College Drive, in Santa Maria, Building F (Room F-188).
The free class is open to everyone. Be advised the topic is sensitive in nature and viewer discretion is advised.
https://santamariatimes.com/news/local/free-one-day-human-trafficking-awareness-class/article_6bb8beee-2e19-523d-a4f9-b9c27a24f11d.html 

▫️MTSU to Host Anti-human Trafficking Advocate Celia Williamson March 20
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University will host author and social justice advocate Celia Williamson for a public lecture on March 20, 2024 as part of the university’s observance of Social Work Month and National Women’s History Month.
Williamson will present “Human Trafficking: Putting a Name to My Face” beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, in Room 104 of Academic Classroom Building, 1751 MTSU Blvd.
“Human trafficking is modern-day slavery and is the second fastest-growing criminal industry, just behind drug trafficking. And sex trafficking is a billion-dollar business,” said event organizer Violet Cox-Wingo, faculty lecturer in the MTSU Department of Social Work.
https://williamsonsource.com/mtsu-to-host-anti-human-trafficking-advocate-celia-williamson-march-20/ 
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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Disabled Pinterest HR worker arrested in anti-paedophile operation
Social media platforms were buzzed with the news that a disabled senior HR worker at Pinterest was arrested in an anti-paedophile operation in Torrance, California.
Human rights activists were shocked after a video emerged online showing the Pinterest senior HR worker, who is suffering from severe physical disability and inclusion advocacy, talking about how he allegedly tried to lure a 14-year-old boy.
According to The Publica, the Child safeguarding volunteer group "People v. Preds (PvP)" was behind the arrest of Drew Soule, 30, in an anti-paedophile operation. Despite that the group posed the video to their Rumble in February, it has now emerged online especially after people discovered that by the time of the arrest video, Soule was an HR worker at Pinterest.
» https://www.thepublica.com/disabled-pinterest-senior-hr-staffer-arrested-during-pedophile-sting-in-california/
» https://www.albawaba.com/node/disabled-pinterest-hr-worker-arrested-anti-paedophile-operation-1557809
» https://rumble.com/v4f6chh-pvp-educational-catch-interview-360-drew-torrance-ca.html   (VIDEO) 

▫️Deputies seek man wanted on sex offender registration violation warrant
UNION -- The Broome County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help finding a man wanted on sex offender registration violation and bail jumping warrants.
The sheriff’s office described Jessie Barnum as a 5 foot 5 inches tall, 145-pound white man with blonde hair and blue eyes. He was last known to frequent the Airport Road area in the Town of Union.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 607-778-1196
https://www.wbng.com/2024/03/14/deputies-seek-man-wanted-sex-offender-registration-violation-warrant/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Virginia fugitive arrested in St. George charged with aggravated human smuggling
ST. GEORGE — Additional charges have been filed against a fugitive wanted on a first-degree felony warrant out of Virginia after officers found a woman who was reportedly assaulted and forced into sex work by the fugitive.
Additional charges were filed Friday against Denzel Jerome Waddy, 33, of Kents Store, Virginia, following his arrest last weekend when officers found him in a local motel room with a victim who was reportedly abducted from out of state.
The investigation began March 7 when the St. George Consolidated Communications Center received a call from an emergency dispatch center in Buffalo, Wyoming, alerting authorities that a suspect had reportedly abducted a woman out of Virginia and then traveled to the area.
» https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2024/03/16/cgb-virginia-fugitive-arrested-in-st-george-charged-with-aggravated-human-smuggling/
» https://www.crimeonline.com/2024/03/16/wanted-virginia-man-arrested-in-utah-for-sex-trafficking-woman-he-was-with/ 

▫️Local jury issues indictments for human trafficking, drug crimes
Zavian Jones of Ossian, Indiana was arrested in January for reported human trafficking crimes that he committed between October and November of 2023. 
Officers from the Hopkinsville Police Department executed an arrest warrant following an investigation that crossed state lines. Jones was indicted on charges of human trafficking of a victim under 18 years old, four counts of procurement of a minor under 12 years old and use of a minor under 16 years old in a sexual performance. 
An investigation conducted by the Crime Suppression Unit of the Hopkinsville Police Department led to the arrest of Michael Lefkowitz of Hopkinsville in February for possessing child pornography.
Lefkowitz was indicted on 17 counts of possession or viewing of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor and nine counts of possession or viewing of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under 12 years of age.
https://whopam.com/2024/03/17/local-jury-issues-indictments-for-human-trafficking-drug-crimes/ 

▫️Santa Monica man charged in child exploitation scheme; accused of 'grooming teen to be sex slave'
A Santa Monica man who authorities say posed as a fitness professional on social media is facing federal charges in connection with an alleged online child exploitation scheme, authorities said.
According to the FBI, John Douglas Burch, 54, has been charged with traveling to engage in illicit sexual conduct (under 18) and enticement of a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and prostitution.

▫️Twice-Deported Illegal working as a Church Teacher Arrested for Sexually Abusing Several Girls
https://rumble.com/v4jghix-twice-deported-illegal-working-as-a-church-teacher-arrested-for-sexually-ab.html   (VIDEO) 

▫️Man arrested in Ozark for sexually assaulting children in West Plains in the 1980s
OZARK, Mo. — A former resident of West Plains was arrested on March 15, 2024, in Ozark, Missouri for the sexual assault of multiple underage girls in the late 1980s after the victims reported the assaults this year.
77-year-old Skyler J. Sheldon is now being charged with five counts of sodomy with a victim less than 14 years old and one count of first-degree sexual abuse in the Howell County Circuit Court.
On Feb. 7, 2024, Sheldon admitted to sexually assaulting three child victims in his West Plains home in a post-Miranda Rights interview with the police. Sheldon lived in that West Plains residence until 1989.
https://www.ozarksfirst.com/news/former-west-plains-resident-arrested-in-ozark-for-sexually-assaulting-children-in-1980s/ 

▫️Rochester, NY man lured 13-year-old to hotel for sex
A Western New York man has been arrested on suspicion he enticed a 13-year-old to a hotel, provided alcohol and marijuana “and engaged in sexual acts with the minor victim,” federal prosecutors said Thursday.
Jonathan Woody, 30, of Rochester, was charged with enticement of a minor, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross said in a news release. 
https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/15/rochester-ny-child-sex-hotel-arrested/ 

▫️3 people arrested on charges related to child exploitation, troopers say
ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La.  - Three people have been arrested, including one person from Denham Springs, on charges related to child exploitation, according to Louisiana State Police.
Troopers said Stuart Stringer, 41; John Anthony Campanella III, 24; and Ross Brignac, 36; all face charges of computer-aided solicitation of a minor and indecent behavior with juveniles. 
https://www.wafb.com/2024/03/16/3-people-arrested-charges-related-child-exploitation-troopers-say/ 

▫️9 Investigates ‘The Rescued’: Teen saved from human trafficking 
An undercover sting in Rowan County led to the rescue of a 16-year-old girl being forced to sell herself for sex. 
» https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/9-investigates-rescued-teen-girl-saved-human-trafficking/MNI26KOUKBEKFEM24RXB7XWZQ4/ 
»

▫️The Web of Human Trafficking Exposed
Human trafficking is a global crisis that affects millions of people every year. In this eye-opening video, we uncover the dark truth behind this modern-day slavery and explore ways to combat it. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against human trafficking.

▫️Dozens walk a mile to raise awareness about child trafficking
Dozens of people walked a mile loop around Camp North End Saturday to raise awareness about impoverished children and children who are victims of human trafficking.
Students at JT Williams Secondary Montessori School in north Charlotte walked to raise money for Joy International.
The global nonprofit dedicates its resources to preventing child trafficking and empowering teens, children, and young adults who’ve been trafficked worldwide.
https://www.yahoo.com/news/dozens-walk-mile-raise-awareness-022454532.html   (VIDEO) 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Detectives Charge 16 Central Florida Registered Sexual Offenders and Predators
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Response Team conducted an initiative aimed at ensuring compliance with Florida’s registration laws for convicted sex offenders and sex predators within Polk County. Detectives charged 16 suspects with failure to comply with registration laws and/or violation of probation.
There are 1,256 sexual offenders and 153 sexual predators registered in Polk County. Registered offenders and predators are checked every quarter by Polk County law enforcement officers to ensure they are in compliance with Florida’s sexual offender/predator registration laws. 
https://westorlandonews.com/detectives-charge-central-florida-registered-sexual-offenders-and-predators/ 

▫️Louisiana State police arrest alleged child predators
Three people are facing child sexual exploitation charges following a joint investigation by state and federal law enforcement officials.
According to Louisiana State Police spokesman William Huggins, authorities arrested John Anthony Campanella, 24, Mandeville; Ross Brignac, 36, Mandeville; and Stuart Stringer, 41, Denham Springs, following that investigation. They are all facing computer-aided solicitation of a minor and indecent behavior with juveniles charges. 
https://www.audacy.com/wwl/news/local/state-police-arrest-alleged-child-predators 

▫️California ‘Teacher of the Year’ accused of abusing 13-year-old student
Jacquelina Ma, 34, a sixth-grade teacher at Lincoln Acres Elementary School in National City, California, was arrested and charged with three counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14, and three counts of oral copulation with a child under 14.
Police were tipped off to the alleged offences after the mother of a 13-year-old called and reported suspicions that her child had potentially been having an "inappropriate relationship with a former teacher," police said in a statement.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/crime/jacqueline-ma-teacher-student-relationship-arrested-b2297716.html
» https://www.nationalcityca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/30013 

▫️HSI Baltimore investigation leads to Maryland woman’s indictment on federal child sexual exploitation, sex trafficking charges | ICE
BALTIMORE — An investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Baltimore, the Maryland State Police, the Baltimore Police Department and the Howard County Police Department resulted in a Maryland woman being federally indicted for two charges stemming from her sexual exploitation of a child. A federal grand jury returned an indictment March 5 charging Verena May Mathis, 24, of Capitol Heights, with sexual exploitation of a child and with child sex trafficking.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-baltimore-investigation-leads-maryland-womans-indictment-federal-child-sexual 

▫️Day 4 in aggravated sexual assault trial in Cooke County
COOKE COUNTY, Texas  - Trial is underway for a man accused of the sexual assault and brutal torture of a child.
David Calhoun, 38, was indicted in 2022, accused of aggravated sexual assault of a child younger than 17 years of age.
Court documents state Calhoun sexually assaulted the unidentified child with foreign objects.
» https://www.kxii.com/2024/03/13/trial-begins-man-accused-brutal-abuse-child/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.kxii.com/2024/03/15/day-4-aggravated-sexual-assault-trial-cooke-county/  (VIDEO) 

▫️3 people in same Prentiss County household arrested and charged with child abuse
Authorities report that the following people belonging to a residence on County Road 1401 are behind bars:
73-year-old Warren Earl Calbaugh — Charged with three counts of sexual battery of a child under the age of 14 and two counts of fondling — $100,000 bond.
68-year-old Wanda Gaye Calbaugh — Charged with contributing to the delinquency or neglect of a child for physical/sexual abuse — $10,000 bond.
49-year-old Darian Lee Calbaugh — Charged with contributing to the delinquency or neglect of a child for physical/sexual abuse — $10,000 bond.
Prentiss County investigator Torie Jumper presented the case against the three individuals to a grand jury. No further details have been provided at this time.
» https://www.supertalk.fm/3-people-in-same-prentiss-county-household-arrested-and-charged-with-child-abuse/
» https://darkhorsepressnow.com/three-arrested-on-child-sex-charges-in-prentiss-county/ 

▫️Man wanted for child sex abuse in Missouri, Lauderdale Co. arrested in Ocean Springs
GULFPORT, Miss. - On Wednesday morning, 51-year-old James Wilkins was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals at a construction site in Ocean Springs.
According to officials, Wilkins was wanted in Texas County, Mo. for the following crimes:
-statutory sodomy for a person less than 14 years old
-attempted statutory sodomy with a person under 14 years old
-sexual misconduct or attempted involving a child under 15 years old
Wilkins is accused of sexually abusing a family member which began when the child was around five years old, with the offenses occurring between 2005 and 2009. The arrest warrant was issued for Wilkins in October of 2022 after the victim came forward.
https://www.wlox.com/2024/03/13/man-wanted-child-sex-abuse-missouri-lauderdale-co-arrested-ocean-springs/ 

▫️U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI Seeking to Identify Potential Victims in Connection with Online Child Exploitation Case
PHILADELPHIA - United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero and FBI Philadelphia Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs announced that their offices are seeking to identify potential victims of an online child exploitation scheme, which originated in Los Angeles, California, and is believed to have victimized minor females in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and elsewhere, starting as early as 2014.
The defendant in this investigation, John Douglas Burch, a resident of the Santa Monica, California area, has been charged by federal indictment in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania with traveling to engage in illicit sexual conduct and enticement of a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct and prostitution.
Contact: USAPAE.PressBox@usdoj.gov or 215-861-8300
https://www.justice.gov/usao-edpa/pr/us-attorneys-office-and-fbi-seeking-identify-potential-victims-connection-online-child 

▫️$2,000 reward: U.S. Marshals Offering Reward for Fugitive Wanted for Rape of a Child and Federal Supervised Released Violation
Memphis, TN – The U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is looking for Quentin Scott. Scott has a warrant for his arrest in Somerville, Tennessee for Rape of a Child and a warrant for Supervised Release Violation on an underlying federal drug charge.
Scott is listed at 5 feet 6 inches in height and weighs approximately 210 pounds. He has ties to Shelby, Fayette, and Hardeman Counties in Tennessee and Red Banks, Mississippi.
The U.S. Marshals Service is offering up to $2,000 reward for information that leads to Scott’s arrest. Citizens are encouraged to call (901) 657-8889, or submit a tip. All tips are anonymous.
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/us-marshals-offering-reward-fugitive-wanted-rape-of-child-and-federal-supervised 

▫️Multiagency Team Arrests Sex Offender Living Deep in Louisiana Swamp | U.S. Marshals Service
Baton Rouge, LA - On Feb. 8, the U.S. Probation and Parole Office in the Middle District of Louisiana requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Middle Louisiana Fugitive Task Force (MLFTF) in locating and arresting a man wanted on active warrants, including supervised release violations.
Brian Schaller was initially indicted in 2015 for distribution of child pornography. He also had an active warrant from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office for violating the terms of his sex offender registry and from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office for felony sexual battery and felony oral sexual battery.
On March 12 the MLFTF received an anonymous tip that Schaller was possibly living deep in the Louisiana swamp, specifically in the Sherburne Wildlife Management Area in the Atchafalaya Basin located just east of Lafayette.
The structure where Schaller had been living was constructed from tree limbs, tarps, and parachute cord (see photos)
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/multiagency-team-arrests-sex-offender-living-deep-louisiana-swamp 

▫️Watertown man faces several felony charges in sex offense arrest, police say
WATERTOWN, NY  —  It was alleged that Shane Kirkby used hidden cameras to record other people without their knowledge or consent, had sexual intercourse with a person under the age of thirteen, subjected a person under thirteen years of age to sexual contact, and forcibly touched the intimate parts of another person.
As a result of the investigation, Shane Kirkby, a 43-year-old Watertown man was charged with Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child, a class A felony, Rape in the first degree, a class B felony, Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the third degree, a class D felony, Sex Abuse in the first degree, a class D felony, Unlawful Surveillance in the second degree, a class E felony, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a class A misdemeanor, and Forcible Touching, a class A misdemeanor.
» https://www.newzjunky.com/watertown-man-faces-several-felony-charges-in-sex-offense-arrest-police-say/ 
»

▫️Tell City pastor charged with sexual misconduct with a minor
HENDERSON, Ky.  – Police have confirmed a lengthy investigation involving a pastor at a Tell City church has ended with an arrest for sexual misconduct.
Errol Wright, 48, who is listed as the pastor of Community Christian Church in Tell City, was arrested and charged with sexual misconduct with a minor, child seduction and child solicitation on Wednesday.
TCPD says more charges could be coming as the investigation continues.
» https://www.tristatehomepage.com/news/local-news/search-warrant-at-tell-city-church-results-in-arrest/   (VIDEO)
» https://wjts.tv/2024/03/tell-city-pastor-charged-with-sexual-misconduct/
»

▫️US commander reveals ‘thousands’ of drones have violated border airspace

▫️FLORIDA Arrest Migrants. Desantis SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER! Florida troops STOP Migrants
Pentagon Deploys Anti Terrorism Units. DeSantis sending Florida State Guard, National Guard members to Florida Coast to Stop Haitian Migrant Crisis in Florida and Texas border. Florida prepares for potential influx of Haitian migrants as violence continues. 
Texas Border Battle. Texas prepared in ‘unlikely event’ Biden federalizes National Guard.
Border standoff between Texas, feds intensifies as governor defies Supreme Court ruling. Texas arresting Migrants. "This is not over," Texas Governor Abbott said in a social media post.

▫️Maui's most vulnerable : What happens when people go missing?
Greetings to all Truth Seekers and Independent Investigators. Join me for another Premiere, tomorrow at noon PDT! What happens when people go missing? In this video, I discuss Michael Herrera's experience during the Indonesian earthquake in 2009 (from The Sean Ryan Show), the many abuses by the Hawaii Department of Human Services (DHS) of Hawaii's foster children, and more. 

▫️SLO County man sentenced to 645 years in prison for child sex crimes
A San Luis Obispo County man was sentenced Wednesday to 645 years to life in prison for his conviction on multiple child sex crimes.
In December, a jury found Edgar Nolverto Guevara, 44, guilty of 11 counts of child molestation and eight counts of forced sex acts on four child victims.
The crimes reportedly took place between 2004 and 2022 and the victims were all under the age of 14.
In 2007, Guevara was also convicted of committing a sex crime on a minor and in 2001, he was convicted of making criminal threats, which is a strike under California's Three Strikes Law.
https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/slo-county-man-sentenced-to-645-years-in-prison-for-child-sex-crimes 

▫️Why do unreported child assault cases continue at Utah psychiatric hospitals?
For the past two years, FOX 13 News has revealed what happens inside Highland Ridge Hospital in Midvale. Employees there spoke up about a culture they say required them to break the law; not reporting all cases of patients being raped or assaulted.
» https://youtu.be/jb5ZjBK8f1U 

▫️Ministry leader used Bible to normalize sexual abuse of blind student, lawsuit says
A ministry group leader is accused of using religion to groom and normalize the sexual abuse of a blind college student, a Texas lawsuit says.
Daniel Savala has a history of sexual abuse accusations dating back to the 1990s and has registered as a sex offender since 2013, according to the lawsuit filed this week.
» https://www.thestate.com/news/nation-world/national/article286739905.html
» https://abc13.com/daniel-savala-texas-sex-offender-spiritual-leader-chi-alpha-campus-ministries-sam-houston-state-university/14528137/
» https://www.bishop-accountability.org/2024/03/ministry-leader-used-bible-to-normalize-sexual-abuse-of-blind-student-lawsuit-says/ 

▫️Calcasieu Parish offering free human trafficking awareness training
LAKE CHARLES, La.  - Human trafficking can happen in our own backyard. Moreover, just last year, 83% of the human trafficking cases in Louisiana involved a victim under the age of 18. That’s why the Calcasieu Parish School Board and the Alliance to Fight Human Trafficking in Southwest Louisiana are providing a free awareness training so you can help spot and combat this crime. Dr. Shannon Lafargue with the Calcasieu Parish School Board and Alliance Vice Chairman Tony Celestine joined us this morning to give us the details.
Tuesday, March 19, at 6 p.m. in the LaGrange High School Auditorium - Wednesday, March 27, at 6 p.m. in the Sulphur High School Auditorium
https://www.kplctv.com/2024/03/18/calcasieu-parish-offering-free-human-trafficking-awareness-training/ 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Washington Navy Lieutenant Commander, 61, is arrested for 'raping 14-year-old boy and paying him $200 for sex'
A lieutenant commander from the Navy’s Fleet Readiness Center Northwest was arrested in Washington Friday on allegations of raping a 14-year-old after paying them for sex.
Lt. Cmdr. Lucas Martinez, 61, who also goes by Lucas Martinezmendieta, according to the Anacortes Police Department, was arrested on charges of third-degree rape of a child, commercial sexual abuse of a minor and communication with a minor for immoral purposes.
According to an affidavit obtained by Task & Purpose, Martinez allegedly went to the home of a 14-year-old boy he met online. Wearing his green camouflage Navy Working Uniform,  Martinez paid $200 to have sex, according to the affidavit. Martinez also allegedly used an official Navy phone line to contact the boy after their meetup.
Despite the seriousness of the charges, Martinez was released Monday and remains attached to Fleet Readiness Center Northwest (FRCNW).
Naval Air Systems Command spokesperson Marcia Hart said in a statement: “We will not comment on the ongoing investigation. Local police have jurisdiction and we will support them and their investigation in any way we can.”
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13212553/Washington-Navy-Lieutenant-Commander-arrested-rape.html
» https://taskandpurpose.com/news/lt-cmdr-whidbey-island-arrested/
» https://nybreaking.com/washington-navy-lieutenant-commander-61-is-arrested-for-raping-14-year-old-boy-and-paying-him-200-for-sex/ 

▫️Human trafficking investigation leads to rescue of 4 victims, 1 arrest
PEARL, Miss. — Four victims were rescued, and one arrest was made as a result of a week-long human trafficking investigator training that culminated in an operation in Pearl.
Attorney General Lynn Fitch made the announcement Tuesday.
» https://www.wapt.com/article/human-trafficking-investigation-leads-to-rescue-of-4-victims-1-arrest/60244857
» https://www.wjtv.com/news/local-news/1-arrested-4-recovered-in-mississippi-human-trafficking-investigation/ 

▫️Operation Broken Heart: Brentwood Police help arrest 7 child predators
The ICAC Task Force resulted in 7 arrests, the identification of minors, the seizure of multiple devices and a “safer community, which is the primary focus of these missions.
https://contracostaherald.com/brentwood-police-help-arrest-7-child-predators-during-operation-broken-heart/ 

▫️Operation Sweet Tee: Online sting for child predators nets 3 local residents
GROVETOWN, Ga. - From Thursday evening through early Sunday, undercover agents and investigators engaged with more than 1,000 individuals, via the internet, according to police.
Of those, 157 verified adults expressed a desire to meet for sexual activity, despite being told they were conversing with a child, according to the Grovetown Police Department.
Investigators are working to positively identify the remaining individuals engaged in the solicitation and additional charges and arrests are expected. 
https://www.wrdw.com/2024/03/18/online-sting-child-predators-nets-3-local-residents/ 

▫️Pair of Spokane men arrested for alleged child luring in Altitude Trampoline Park parking lot
SPOKANE, Wash. – A pair of Spokane men made their first appearances in Spokane County Superior Court on Monday for allegedly attempting to lure two children into a truck on March 15.
According to court documents, Nicholas Esteban Philipe, 35, and Ramon Simon Matias, 40, pulled alongside two children in the parking lot of Altitude Trampoline Park in the Spokane Valley. 
The children said the two men followed them for about 15 minutes. One of the men allegedly told the children to get in the vehicle. They both face a child luring charge and are currently in Spokane County Jail.
https://www.khq.com/news/pair-of-spokane-men-arrested-for-alleged-child-luring-in-altitude-trampoline-park-parking-lot/article_1c2caef0-e560-11ee-b652-2f9bbef9c0b1.html   (VIDEO) 

▫️Three detained in Canadian County sting against online child predators
CANADIAN COUNTY, Okla.  — Three men were arrested in February in Canadian County for attempting to pick up and entice children for sex. 24-year-old Kamryn Meyer from Oklahoma City, 37-year-old Eric Groff from Oklahoma City, and 25-year-old Kevin Davis from Wyandotte were all arrested during the operation.
https://okcfox.com/news/local/three-detained-in-canadian-county-sting-against-online-child-predators-kamryn-meyer-oklahoma-city-eric-groff-kevin-davis-sexual-communication-federal-bureau-of-investigation-chris-west 

▫️Man arrested for allegedly molesting three juveniles in California
GREENFIELD, Calif. — Greenfield Police said they arrested a man who allegedly sexually abused three juvenile victims.
On Thursday, two juveniles reported sexual abuse by Eleuterio Ortiz, 38, of Gonzales. Following the two juvenile reports, with the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations and the Soledad Police Department, a third juvenile victim was located.
Ortiz was then found and booked into Monterey County Jail for multiple charges, including child molestation and rape, said Greenfield Police.
https://www.ksbw.com/article/man-arrested-california-allegedly-molesting-three-juveniles-monterey-county/60232203 

▫️5 arrested, 12 cited in prostitution sting operation in Reno
Officers with the regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking team, including undercover female detectives, targeted men soliciting sex for money Thursday and Friday, according to a Monday news release.
Twelve men were issued citations for solicitation of prostitution, and three men were arrested on the charge of solicitation. Two others were arrested on felony charges of pandering, police said.
» https://www.rgj.com/story/news/crime/2024/03/18/special-unit-arrests-5-cites-12-in-prostitution-sting-operation/73020454007/
» https://mynews4.com/news/local/five-arrested-twelve-cited-in-sting-operation-against-sex-solicitation-in-reno
» https://www.2news.com/news/regional-undercover-sex-sting-nets-15-arrests/article_c943ce8c-e553-11ee-8890-7f8878b8450f.html 

▫️Unresponsive baby in Statesville reveals sexual abuse of 15-year-old; 3 charged: Police
Authorities say a sexual relationship between the then-21-year-old Torres and a 15-year-old was revealed during the investigation into the baby’s abuse. Torres was then charged with 10 counts of Statutory Rape/Sex Offenses Against a Child 15 or Younger and 1 count of Intentional Child Abuse—Serious Bodily Injury.
The Department of Social Services (DSS) was contacted and took custody of Torres’ 3 juvenile daughters.
According to officials, Torres was found and arrested by the United States Marshals Service at a family member’s home in Davie County on March 5. He was taken to the Iredell County Jail and held without bond.
» https://www.wnct.com/news/north-carolina/unresponsive-baby-in-statesville-reveals-sexual-abuse-of-15-year-old-3-charged-police/   (VIDEO) 
»

▫️North Carolina man faces several child porn charges following undercover operation in Henry County
HENRY COUNTY, Va.  — A North Carolina man is facing several child pornography charges after a months-long undercover operation in Henry County.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children launched an undercover chat operation on Jan. 4. Throughout the operation, an investigator posed as a 13-year-old girl, and allegedly came into contact with 63-year-old Richard Herman Albers on an online forum.
As communication continued, Albers believed he was communicating with the teen to arrange a sexual encounter.
https://www.wfxrtv.com/news/local-news/north-carolina-man-faces-several-sex-charges-following-undercover-operation-in-henry-county/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Pimmit Hills man arrested after being found with missing teen, police say
A Pimmit Hills man has been accused of possessing child porn and having sex with a teenager who was reported missing in New York.
Detectives arrested 20-year-old Muammer Steve Demir on Friday (March 15) after they found him with the teen at a house in the 7300 block of Sportsman Drive, the Fairfax County Police Department announced today (Monday).
https://www.tysonsreporter.com/2024/03/18/pimmit-hills-man-arrested-after-being-found-with-missing-teen-police-say/ 

▫️San Bernardino man arrested for sexually assaulting two children
A San Bernardino man has been arrested on allegations of sexually assaulting two children. 
Investigators began to look into the allegations on Thursday, launching a child sexual abuse investigation which led them to identify the suspect as 45-year-old Joe Castillo, according to a statement from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
During their investigation, they determined that Castillo had been sexually assaulting two male juveniles, aged between 12 and 17 years old, both of which they say were known to the suspect. 
He was arrested on Friday at around 1;40 p.m. and booked for lewd acts with a minor under 14 years of age and copulation with a minor under 18 years of age, investigators said. 
https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/san-bernardino-man-arrested-for-sexually-assaulting-two-children/ 

▫️Man shoots accused child sex predator, case to go to grand jury for indictment decision
HOUSTON - Joe Moses Rodriguez was arrested in January and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, accused of shooting Miguel Mendez four times. 
On March 14, Mendez was charged with a child sex abuse charge (continue sex abuse of a child), shedding new light on why prosecutors say Rodriguez pulled the trigger.
"He basically, in the heat of passion, pulled a gun out and shot the man who was accused of molesting [the girl]," said Harris County District Attorney Prosecutor Billy Morian III.
https://www.fox26houston.com/news/man-shoots-accused-child-sex-predator-case-to-go-to-grand-jury-for-indictment-decision   (VIDEO) 

▫️Man arrested in New Hanover County accused of being involved in multi-state human trafficking
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC  — A man has been arrested in New Hanover County for allegedly being involved in a multi-state human trafficking operation.
Ryan Klinger, 48, was arrested in a coordinated operation involving law enforcement agencies from the FBI, New Hanover Country Sheriff’s Office, and Wilmington Police Department.
The task force says they received information from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division of a possible human trafficking situation that occurred in South Carolina that may have transitioned to Wilmington.
Klinger was located and a victim was recovered, the task force says.
https://www.wwaytv3.com/man-arrested-in-new-hanover-county-accused-of-being-involved-in-multi-state-human-trafficking/ 

▫️North Las Vegas school janitor arrested on sex charges
Devyn Hudson, 27, a janitor at Canyon Springs High School in North Las Vegas, was arrested Monday by North Las Vegas police, thev department said in a press release.
Hudson has been employed by the district since December 2015. Hudson was booked into the North Las Vegas Community Correctional Center where he faces charges for sexual assault of a minor under the age of 16, attempt sexual assault of a minor under the age of 16, and lewdness with a minor under the age of 16.
https://www.reviewjournal.com/crime/sex-crimes/north-las-vegas-school-janitor-arrested-on-sex-charges-3019437/ 

▫️Chelsea, Revere men suspected of possessing child sex abuse material
Two Massachusetts men accused of owning child sex abuse material appeared in court following a state investigation, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden’s office announced.
Timothy Brown, 38, of Chelsea, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography, Hayden’s office said in a statement on Monday. Kenneth Higgins, 45, of Revere, was charged on March 13 with one count of possession of child pornography (third offense).
» https://www.masslive.com/news/2024/03/chelsea-revere-men-suspected-of-possessing-child-sex-abuse-material.html
» https://www.necn.com/news/local/registered-sex-offender-accused-of-possessing-images-of-child-sex-abuse/3188332/ 

▫️Barrington RI and Massachusetts pediatrician accused of molesting 7-year-old girl
BARRINGTON, R.I. — A pediatrician is accused of sexually molesting a 7-year-old girl.
Dr. David S. Healey, 51, of Barrington, who is licensed to practice in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, was ordered held without bail Friday on a charge of first-degree child molestation, sexual assault.
The girl is known to Healey, but is not a patient, according to court records.
» https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/03/15/metro/barrington-ri-pediatrician-accused-of-molesting-7-year-old-girl/
»

▫️Missing New York teen found in Virginia, McLean man arrested on child exploitation charges
MCLEAN, Va. - A Virginia man is in jail after detectives found a missing New York girl at his home in McLean. Fairfax County police told FOX 5 that the girl has been missing for about seven months. 
On March 15, detectives were informed that the missing teenager from New York might be in Fairfax County. Their investigation led them to a residence in the 7300 block of Sportsman Drive in McLean. 
Upon arriving at the location, detectives and patrol officers discovered the girl in the company of Muammer Steve Demir. 
https://www.fox5dc.com/news/missing-new-york-teen-found-in-virginia-mclean-man-arrested-on-child-exploitation-charges   (VIDEO) 

▫️Walker man gets prison for sex trafficking (UPDATE)
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A former high school custodian arrested last summer in a sex trafficking investigation was sentenced Monday to a minimum of nearly four years in prison for what the judge called “significant exploitation.”
Jeremy Byl, 47, of Walker, a U.S. Army veteran who has no prior criminal record, apologized for his criminal behavior. Investigators say Byl created multiple social media accounts posing as a female online to arrange for commercial sex and that he took women to prostitution meetings. Charges included accepting the earnings from prostitution and transporting a person for prostitution, both 20-year felonies.
https://www.woodtv.com/news/kent-county/walker-man-gets-prison-for-sex-trafficking/ 

▫️How detectives safely found the Utah victim of cyber kidnapping
RIVERDALE, Utah – One of Utah’s biggest crime cases of 2023 took police on a frantic search to find a foreign exchange student, supposedly kidnapped and being held for ransom. In a bizarre twist, detectives discovered he wasn’t abducted at all. He was a victim of what they came to learn was cyber kidnapping.
So how did they solve it? ABC4 News goes in depth with Riverdale Police for the answer, in this edition of Behind the Badge.  
https://www.abc4.com/news/badge/behind-the-badge-how-detectives-safely-found-the-utah-victim-of-cyber-kidnapping/ 

▫️7 more children come forward, accuse Greenfield man of abusing them
HANCOCK COUNTY — There were multiple molest victims at various locations of childcare around the county, officials from the Hancock County Prosecutor’s said. The allegations surround new charges filed Wednesday afternoon against a Greenfield man accused of numerous molest crimes.  
Jericho Lee Marvin Johnson, 26, 1600 block of Carlton Drive, Greenfield, has been charged with violating at least seven county children either at the YMCA after-school program at J.B. Stephens, the YMCA after-school program at Mt. Comfort Elementary School or at the Shining Stars Child Care Academy, 1295 N. State Street, Greenfield.  
» https://www.wthr.com/article/news/crime/more-charges-expected-man-accused-inappropriately-touching-girls-during-greenfield-after-school-program-ymca-jericho-johnson-hancock-county/531-27f94fe0-78dd-4582-b5c8-28ed8951aa4a   (VIDEO)
» https://www.greenfieldreporter.com/2024/03/13/prosecutor-there-are-more-victims-in-molest-case-against-johnson/
»

▫️Cheyenne Child Sex Predator Exposed In YouTube Video Gets 8 Years In Prison
Clayton Tanner, 20, was initially arrested in July 2022 after he was exposed having an inappropriate conversation with someone he thought to be an 11-year-old girl by a group known as the “Predator Poachers.”  Tanner was actually talking with an adult man, Alex Rosen.
Clayton Tanner, 20, was sentenced March 14 to eight years in federal prison for possession of child pornography. The federal sentence will be served concurrently with a prior state sentence imposed on Tanner for similar crimes.
https://cowboystatedaily.com/2024/03/18/cheyenne-child-sex-predator-exposed-in-youtube-video-gets-8-years-in-prison/ 

▫️Mar 28 | Safeguard Against Human Trafficking at the OCL Toms River Branch | Toms River, NJ Patch
Human trafficking is a global crime. One unguarded moment can victimize anyone, of any age, anywhere. Learn its effects and how to guard against it during “Human Trafficking 101” in the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, 6;30 PM Thursday, March 28.
Susan Flynn of the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking will describe how it became one of the world’s largest criminal enterprises locally and internationally, who is impacted, how to recognize it, and what people can do to raise awareness.
https://patch.com/new-jersey/tomsriver/calendar/event/20240328/d8f7274c-1b02-4d06-9891-95392963218f/safeguard-against-human-trafficking-at-the-ocl-toms-river-branch 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Sketch Released of Suspect in March 7 Sexual Assault in Seven Oaks Park
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A week after a 15-year-old boy was sexually assaulted at a park in Southeast Nashville, Metro Police have released a sketch of what the suspect looks like.
Anyone with information about the man or the car is asked to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and qualify for a cash reward.
» https://www.wbtv.com/video/2024/03/20/police-release-sketch-sexual-assault-suspect/   (VIDEO)
» https://www.nashville.gov/departments/police/news/sketch-released-suspect-march-7-sexual-assault-seven-oaks-park 

▫️Prostitution bust in Harris County arrests 13 suspects for human trafficking
HARRIS COUNTY, Texas - Many of the women rescued were from other countries who informed law enforcement they were being trafficked.
Thirteen men were arrested around the FM 1960 corridor and charged as part of a prostitution investigation in Harris County on Tuesday. 
https://www.fox26houston.com/news/13-arrested-prostitution-operation-harris-county-fm-1960 

▫️(UPDATE) Human trafficking training session leads to 4 victims rescued in central Mississippi
PEARL, Miss. — A week-long human trafficking training session led to an operation in central Mississippi that resulted in one individual being arrested and four victims being rescued, Attorney General Lynn Fitch reports.
Four victims were rescued, and one arrest was made as a result of a week-long human trafficking investigator training that culminated in an operation in Pearl.
In the past three years, the Attorney General's Office has completed 56 multi-jurisdictional operations across the state that have led to the recovery of 331 victims and 86 arrests.
» https://www.wapt.com/article/human-trafficking-investigation-leads-to-rescue-of-4-victims-1-arrest/60244857 (VIDEO)
 » https://www.supertalk.fm/human-trafficking-training-session-leads-to-4-victims-rescued-in-central-mississippi/
»

▫️Anson Co. coach charged with human trafficking, indecent liberties with children
ANSON COUNTY, N.C.  — A man known for coaching kids in Anson County is now accused of human trafficking among other crimes against children.
Jamoszio Burch, 30, has been charged with felony human trafficking of a child, and felony two counts of indecent liberties with children.
Burch is known throughout the area as ‘Coach Moszi.’ 
»

▫️GirlsDoPorn owner extradited from Spain to face sex trafficking charges
SAN DIEGO  — GirlsDoPorn owner Michael Pratt, who faces sex trafficking charges, was arraigned and entered a not-guilty plea on Tuesday, prosecutors said. He was extradited to San Diego from Spain on Monday after his arrest in December 2022.
Pratt, 36, is accused of deceiving and coercing young women, most of whom are in their late teens, and at least one minor victim to appear in pornographic videos, the Office of the United States Attorney Southern District Of California said in a news release Tuesday. He faces 19 felony counts linked to the GirlsDoPorn operation.
Friend and Business Partner of GirlsDoPorn Owner Michael Pratt, Matthew Isaac Wolfe was sentenced in federal court today to 14 years in prison for his role in a conspiracy with Michael Pratt, owner of the website GirlsDoPorn, and others, to deceive and coerce young women into appearing in pornographic videos.
» https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/girlsdoporn-owner-faces-charges-in-alleged-commercial-sex-trafficking-ring/    (VIDEO)
» https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/porn-site-owner-pleads-not-guilty/vi-BB1kbYzV    (VIDEO)
» https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/friend-and-business-partner-girlsdoporn-owner-michael-pratt-sentenced-14-years-prison
» https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/girlsdoporn-owner-michael-pratt-extradited-face-sex-trafficking-charges
» https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2024/03/19/girlsdoporn-website-owner-michael-james-pratt-extradited-to-san-diego-to-face-sex-trafficking-charges/
» https://t.me/ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING/9773 

▫️Virginia man busted in child predator sting arrested at Dulles
DULLES, Va. — A 24-year-old Herndon man is being held without bond after he was arrested at Dulles International Airport last week. Authorities say the man was trying to flee the country while awaiting trial for sex crimes against a child.
Fairfax County Police confirmed the man arrested was Ravi Vongavolu of Herndon. Vongavolu was one of 10 alleged child predators busted last year during an online sting operation in Fairfax County. 
Now, authorities say he tried to leave the country before his trial. Customs and Border Patrol Director of Field Operations Stephen Maloney announced Vongavolu's arrest at Dulles International Airport on X, formerly known as Twitter, on March 13.
https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/virginia/virginia-man-charged-with-child-sex-crimes-arrested-at-dulles-airport/65-632b01d7-d1f7-4a5b-930a-e4758beb986d    (VIDEO) 

▫️Two people, including local salon owner, arrested on suspicion of sharing child pornography
LAYTON — Two Davis County residents were arrested on Monday and Tuesday after a months-long investigation showed images containing child sexual abuse material being sent between two accounts, according to a police affidavit.
On Nov. 29 2023, the Centerville Police Department was alerted by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a Snapchat user possessing child sex abuse material, the document states.
During the months-long investigation, officers tracked down Kurt VanWagoner, 57, and Lindsay Cantwell, 40, both residents of Davis County, face ten charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, a second-degree felony.
As the investigation progressed, Centerville police discovered that Cantwell was the owner of a hair salon in Layton, where the Snapchat account associated with Cantwell “took nude photographs while at her workstation inside (Cantwell’s Salon),” the document states.
https://ksltv.com/631505/two-people-including-local-salon-owner-arrested-on-suspicion-of-sharing-child-pornography/ 

▫️Businessman pleads guilty in polygamous leader's scheme to orchestrate sexual acts involving underage girls
A businessman pleaded guilty Tuesday to conspiring with the leader of an offshoot polygamous sect to transport underage girls across state lines for sexual activity. He was the first man to be convicted in what authorities have characterized as a scheme, carried out by the small polygamous group based near the Arizona-Utah border, to orchestrate sexual acts involving children.
Moroni Johnson, who faces 10 years to life in prison, acknowledged that he participated in a scheme to transport four girls under the age of 18 for sexual activity. Authorities say the conspiracy between the 53-year-old Johnson and the sect's leader, self-proclaimed prophet Samuel Bateman, occurred over a three-year period ending in September 2022.
Charges also are pending against four other women identified as Bateman’s wives and two of his male followers, both of whom are charged with using a means of interstate commerce to persuade or coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity, among other charges.
» https://www.cbsnews.com/news/moroni-johnson-samuel-bateman-polygamous-sect-scheme-orchestrate-sexual-acts-underage-girls/
» https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/polygamous-sect-member-pleads-guilty-scheme-orchestrate-sexual-108294946
» https://www.courttv.com/news/member-of-samuel-batemans-polygamous-sect-pleads-guilty-in-child-sex-scheme/ 

▫️Couple accused of trying to sell their newborn twins for $5,000
JACKSON COUNTY, Ky.  - A Kentucky couple has been arrested for trying to sell their newborn twins. Jackson County authorities say Zachary Davis and Jacquilyn Keith are accused of agreeing to sell their children to a family member.
According to an arrest report, authorities were contacted by Davis’ sister-in-law who told them the couple had agreed to sell their newborn twin girls to her for $5,000.
» https://www.cleveland19.com/2024/03/20/couple-accused-trying-sell-their-newborn-twins-5000/
» https://www.witn.com/2024/03/20/couple-accused-trying-sell-their-newborn-twins-5000/   (VIDEO)
» https://www.foxcarolina.com/2024/03/20/couple-accused-trying-sell-their-newborn-twins-5000/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Two Mercer Co. Men Charged With Child Sexual Abuse
Two Mercer County men are facing charges after incidents of unlawful sexual contact with a minor over eight years ago.
Grove City Police charged 21 year old Rodnea Maxwell of Sharon earlier this month. He was picked up on a warrant in Ohio before being extradited to Pennsylvania and booked into the Mercer County Jail on $100,000 secured bond.
Police say their investigation into two separate incidents in 2015 and 2016 resulted in the charges against Maxwell including Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child, Indecent Assault of a Person less than 13 years of Age, and Aggravated Indecent Assault of a Child.
Two days later 27-year-old Shylear Person, also of Sharon was charged with Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse with a Child as well as Unlawful Contact with a Minor and Corruption of Minors in regard to an incident in 2015-16. Person was released on $25,000 unsecured bond.
https://butlerradio.com/two-mercer-co-men-charged-with-child-sexual-abuse/ 

▫️Man arrested for trying to kidnap teen girl outside Homestead home
Michael Luprecio is facing battery and attempted kidnapping charges. He was being held without bond; Miami-Dade jail records showed.
Luprecio is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
Police say the victim was walking her dog in front of her home along Southwest 4th Street when a dark gray Chevrolet Tahoe pulled into her driveway.
The victim then walked past the vehicle to get back to her home, when the man lunged at her and grabbed her, attempting to pull her closer to his vehicle, police said.
https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/man-accused-of-trying-to-kidnap-teen-girl-outside-her-homestead-home-set-to-appear-in-court/3263545/ 

▫️Gov. Sanders sends 40 Arkansas National Guardsmen to Southern Border
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders sent the Arkansas Army National Guard to the southern border to support the Texas National Guard on Tuesday in an effort to stabilize border control.
Nearly 40 guardsmen were sent to assist in combating illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and human trafficking created by the failed policies of the Biden Administration, according to Sanders.
Guardsmen will be at the nation's border from April 1st until May 30th.
https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/outreach/gov-deploys-ar-national-guard-southern-border/91-770c2009-8234-4384-8cf7-bd27d41e08b8   (VIDEO) 

▫️Juárez police accused of kidnapping migrants for ransom
Bryan Fernando H.R. is accused of using his job as a police officer to form "a complex network of corruption" linked to migrant kidnappings in a border city teeming with new arrivals from around the world, the Chihuahua Attorney General's Office said.
The ex-policeman faces a charge of aggravated kidnapping in connection with the abduction of 17 migrants of various nationalities held for ransom in March 2023 in the hillside Felipe Angeles neighborhood in western Juárez, across the border from the University of Texas at El Paso.
He allegedly guarded the kidnapped migrants, threatened them with a gun and demanded ransom payments from their families in exchange for letting them go free, prosecutors said.
Last June, Chihuahua state police investigators arrested two other Juárez police officers accused of kidnapping recently-arrived migrants.
Saulo D.G. and Juan Manuel R.I. are accused of abducting migrants who had been intercepted while taking an Uber ride after arriving at the Juárez airport, the attorney general's office said.
https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/news/local/juarez/2024/03/19/juarez-police-corruption-arrested-migrant-kidnapping-ransom-on-mexico-border/72976324007/ 

▫️Arrests of migrants with criminal records up 340%
U.S. Customs and Border Protection data shows the number of criminal non-citizen encounters has risen 340% in the past three years, to a high of 32,194 in fiscal year 2023. Since Oct. 1, another 11,958 have been caught rushing the border between ports of entry or trying to blend in at busy ports, hoping their past won’t show up in CBP computers.
» https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/news/border-report/arrests-of-migrants-with-criminal-records-up-340/amp/  (VIDEO)
» https://fox5sandiego.com/news/border-report/arrests-of-migrants-with-criminal-records-up-340/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Americans evacuated from Haiti by rescue group worried ‘no one would come’ to save them
Two US missionaries escaped Haiti, as it descends into chaos and gang violence, through an evacuation organized by an international nonprofit rescue group.
Miriam Cinotti and her friend Lynn, who did not want to give her last name for security reasons, were worried they had been abandoned by the US government, which had offered little more than advice since civil order broke out in the Caribbean country.
Since both main international airports have been closed since gangs seized power in the capital, Port-au-Prince, earlier this month, they were effectively stranded.
However, after The Post helped highlight their plight last week, they were able to arrange to leave with veteran-led group Project Dynamo, which airlifted them to safety in the Dominican Republic on Sunday.
https://nypost.com/2024/03/19/us-news/americans-evacuated-from-haiti-by-rescue-group/  

▫️Human Trafficking of Children : City Atty Hydee Feldstein Soto & LAPD Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides
In order to fight the sexual exploitation of children the City of Los Angeles has launched a Human Trafficking Task Force in conjunction with multiple law enforcement agencies and non profit organizations. In 2023 they rescued 60 minors and 11 adults from forced sex work. This podcast tells that story.
Hydee Feldstein Soto is the 43rd Los Angeles City Attorney. She is the city's general counsel and serves as legal advisor to the Mayor, city council and hundreds of boards, departments and entities. 

▫️Westbrook man to spend 18 years in prison for sexually exploiting 14-year-old
WESTBROOK, Maine  - A Westbrook man will spend 18 years in prison for sexually abusing a 14-year-old.
Rayevon Deschambault, 28, was convicted in January 2023 of two counts of sexually exploiting a child in a jury trial that took only two days in a Portland District court.
Court records show that Deschambault sexually abused a 14-year-old child for the purpose of creating child sexual abuse material. The resulting illegal videos were found on Deschambault’s phone when it was seized by investigators in August 2019.
» https://www.wabi.tv/2024/03/20/westbrook-man-spend-18-years-prison-sexually-exploiting-14-year-old/
» https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/pr/westbrook-man-sentenced-18-years-sexually-exploiting-child 

▫️Batesville Human Trafficking Awareness Event, Apr 13 at 10:00AM - 12:30PM
An area-wide human trafficking awareness event at First Baptist Church. This informative and engaging experience will discuss the prevalence of this issue in our community, recognize signs that could indicate a potential situation, take steps towards staying safe, find ways to get involved, how to create small/community awareness groups, and more! The focus will be on its prevalence in Batesville and the area.
Come learn and get your questions answered from local and international speakers, including Gene Tulberg (Batesville), Swords & Stilettos (Batesville), The Genesis Project (Heber Springs), and Hope Found of NEA (Jonesboro). Everyone has a role in this issue. Make a difference today by educating yourself and helping us bring awareness to our community.
https://www.guardonline.com/local-events/?_evDiscoveryPath=/event/2311188-human-trafficking-awareness-event 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Six cyber predators arrested after undercover operation
MEDFORD, Ore. — A months-long undercover operation to identify adults victimizing children online has led to arrests of six suspects throughout Oregon, the Jackson County Sheriff's Office reported Thursday.
The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force conducted the operation to identify and arrest dangerous cyber predators using the internet to meet with local children to have sex, the sheriff's office said.
» https://www.kdrv.com/video/six-cyber-predators-arrested-after-undercover-operation/video_06ea790c-8069-5fd1-a2e7-c75b1a40bf70.html  (VIDEO)
» https://ktvl.com/news/local/operation-to-id-adults-victimizing-children-online-leads-to-arrest-of-6-oregon-men   (VIDEO)
» https://ktvz.com/news/crime-courts/2024/03/22/s-oregon-online-child-exploitation-undercover-operation-leads-to-six-cyber-predator-arrests-including-redmond-man/
»

▫️Operation Heartbreaker: Pitt Sheriff: 16 sex offenders arrested for violating registry requirements
GREENVILLE, N.C.  -The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office says a multi-agency investigation dubbed “Operation Heartbreaker” has led to the arrest of 16 sex offenders for violations of the registry requirements.
Last month the sheriff’s office, along with the U.S. Marshal’s Service and the NC Department of Adult Corrections, set out to make sure registered sex offenders living in Pitt County are compliant with the state’s sex offender registry.
Law enforcement officials did 300 residency checks and also conducted an investigation into offenders with unregistered online identifiers, leading to the arrests. All of those arrested are charged with failing to register. Some were also charged with parole violations.
https://www.witn.com/2024/03/22/pitt-sheriff-16-sex-offenders-arrested-violating-registry-requirements/ 

▫️St. Augustine Convicted Child Sex Offender Pleads Guilty To Producing A Video Of Sexually Abusing A Minor
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Christopher Lee Smith (42, St. Augustine) has pleaded guilty to using a child to produce a video of Smith as he sexually abused the child. Smith faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 25, up to 50 years, in federal prison and a potential life term of supervised release.
FBI agents were able to identify both Smith and the child.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/st-augustine-convicted-child-sex-offender-pleads-guilty-producing-video-sexually 

▫️Senior leader of transnational criminal organization MS-13 arrested after 4 years on the run, court documents say
After four years on the run, a senior leader of MS-13 – one of the largest transnational criminal organizations – was captured this month in Southern California on terrorism charges, court documents say.
Freddy Ivan Jandres-Parada was accused by federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York in December 2020 of being a member of MS-13’s board of directors, known as the Ranfla Nacional, along with a dozen other MS-13 members, according to his indictment
https://nypost.com/2024/03/22/us-news/senior-ms-13-gang-leader-arrested-on-southern-border/ 

▫️Teen Girl Breaks Away From Kidnapping Attempt In Lakewood: Police
LAKEWOOD, NJ — Authorities are searching for a man in a white SUV following an attempted kidnapping in Lakewood on Thursday evening, police said.
A 911 caller reported the attempt about 7:30 p.m. Thursday on Forest Park Circle, Capt. Gregory Staffordsmith said. Officers learned the man — described only as Black or Hispanic — tried to force a teenage girl into a white SUV, but she was able to break free, Staffordsmith said.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Lakewood Detective Sgt. Tyler DiStefano at 732-363-0200.
» https://dailyvoice.com/new-jersey/ocean/man-tried-to-abduct-teen-girl-in-lakewood-police-searching-for-suspect/
» https://patch.com/new-jersey/lakewood-nj/teen-girl-breaks-away-kidnapping-attempt-lakewood-police 

▫️St. Cloud Police Seek Public’s Help After Teenage Girl is Abducted and Assaulted by Two Men in Black SUV
The St. Cloud Police Department is looking for two men accused of grabbing a teenage girl off the street and sexually assaulting her.
If anyone has information, call the SCPD at 320-251-1200.
https://knsiradio.com/2024/03/21/566331/ 

▫️HSI Del Rio, federal and state partner investigation results in 4 family members sentenced for operating a human smuggling organization | ICE
DEL RIO, Texas – Four family members were sentenced on March 15 to federal prison for their roles in operating an extensive human smuggling organization (HSO). The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Del Rio along with federal and state law enforcement partners.
U.S. District Judge Alia Moses imposed the following sentences on four defendants: Eva Maria Galeas, 43, was sentenced to 180 months in prison and Lisa Marie Ortega, 25, was sentenced to 156 months in prison. Both are from San Antonio, Texas; Sandra Galeas-Mejia, 48, from Mexico was sentenced to 84 months in prison; and Norma Galeas-Mejia, 52, from Honduras, was sentenced to 78 months. 
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-del-rio-federal-and-state-partner-investigation-results-4-family-members 

▫️TN child rape suspect arrested in Oklahoma City after LPR cameras detect his vehicle
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – A man wanted for child rape in Nashville was arrested in Oklahoma City after a license plate recognition (LPR) camera alerted authorities to his vehicle.
The Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) said a grand jury indicted 38-year-old Seth Taylor of Madison earlier this month after he repeatedly raped a 12-year-old girl years prior. He faces five counts of rape of a child, two counts of aggravated sexual battery, and one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child.
» https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/child-rape-suspect-arrested-in-oklahoma-city-after-lpr-cameras-detect-his-vehicle/
» https://t.me/ENDHUMANTRAFFICKING/14071 

▫️Sex offender faces torture, sexual assault charges in abuse of 2 Dearborn women
DEARBORN, MI -DEABORN, Mich. – A judge has denied bond for a registered sex offender accused of assaulting two elderly sisters in Dearborn on St. Patrick’s Day.
Michael Holcomb, 52, is facing sexual assault and torture charges after reportedly forcing himself into the women’s home on Sunday, March 17.
Dearborn police did not confirm if he was involved in the sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in Allen Park on the same day, but acknowledged that are currently not involved in that investigation and did not have any information.
» https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2024/03/20/sex-offender-faces-torture-sexual-assault-charges-in-abuse-of-2-dearborn-women/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/wayne/2024/03/21/michael-holcomb-charged-in-rape-also-suspect-in-assault-of-teen/73055039007/
» https://www.mlive.com/news/2024/03/michigan-man-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-torturing-pair-of-elderly-women.html 

▫️New charges for babysitter and friend arrested for sexual abuse
BEAUMONT, Texas — A babysitter and her friend were both arrested Tuesday, March 19 after the Beaumont Police Department received reports of the sexual abuse of three children between the ages of 7-10.
BPD launched an investigation after receiving the reports back in January, as well as an additional report about a 9-year-old in February.
The investigation revealed that 41-year-old Patricia Elgin, was running an unregistered babysitting service out of her home in the 1300 block of Live Oak.
During this time she was looking after up to 12 children while allowing 51-year-old Troy Howard who was a registered sex offender, to live there and have full access to the children since December.
https://www.12newsnow.com/article/news/crime/new-charges-for-babysitter-who-exposed-children-to-registered-sex-offender/502-9525ee09-a078-492b-a7b5-2326f27fcc2a  (VIDEO) 

▫️Illinois State Police: One arrested in Bloomington area for human trafficking
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - On March 20, the Trafficking Enforcement Bureau of the state police “conducted an operation focused on identifying individuals who compel others into the commercial sex industry through force fraud and coercion, while also offering resources to victims of human trafficking that are encountered.”  
24-year-old Marcus D. Bender of Springfield, was arrested and charged with involuntary servitude and promoting prostitution, both felonies that could send him to prison for up to three years.
» https://www.25newsnow.com/2024/03/22/probe-into-human-trafficking-leads-an-arrest-bloomington/  (VIDEO)
» https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/illinois-state-police-one-arrested-in-bloomington-area-for-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Wasatch County sheriff's employee arrested for alleged sex acts with minor
HEBER CITY — A Wasatch County Sheriff's Office employee has been arrested for alleged sexual crimes involving a minor.
Mitchell McKee, 58, the administrative services director for Wasatch County Sheriff's Office, was arrested Wednesday for investigation of human trafficking of a child, forcible sodomy, sexual exploitation of a minor, enticing a minor and dealing in materials harmful to minors.
https://www.ksl.com/article/50958365/wasatch-county-sheriffs-employee-arrested-for-alleged-sex-acts-with-minor 

▫️Utahn arrested for child sex crimes is a counselor, police administrator and retired officer
FARMINGTON — A 58-year-old Utah man who has been arrested on suspicion of sex crimes involving a minor is an administrator in a Utah sheriff’s office, is a current mental health counselor and is a retired law enforcement officer, court documents state.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, Mitchell McKee was arrested Wednesday, suspected of human trafficking of a child, sexual exploitation of a minor, enticing a minor, dealing in materials harmful to a minor and forcible sodomy.
https://ksltv.com/631922/administrator-at-wasatch-county-sheriffs-office-arrested-on-suspicion-of-sex-crimes-with-a-minor/  (VIDEO) 

▫️CCSD counselor arrested in Utah, charged with sexual abuse
Mesquite police on Thursday arrested a Clark County School District counselor on suspicion of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor.
David Scott Curtis, 54, faces charges from police in St.George, Utah
https://www.reviewjournal.com/crime/sex-crimes/mesquite-counselor-4th-ccsd-employee-arrested-in-a-week-3021459/ 

▫️Schertz police urging other potential victims to come forward after teacher arrest
SAN ANTONIO – Schertz police are trying to determine how big of a case they may be dealing with after the arrest of an elementary school teacher on a charge of indecency with a child. Gabriel Cantu, 42, was arrested and booked into the Guadalupe County jail Thursday morning.
Cantu was placed on leave from his job, according to a news release from the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District.
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2024/03/21/schertz-police-urging-other-potential-victims-to-come-forward-after-teacher-arrest/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Task Force Arrests Hoover High Associate Principal on Child Pornography Charges
An administrator at Hoover High School was arrested this week on suspicion of possessing and distributing child pornography, authorities announced Thursday.
Authorities arrested Charles Thomas Boyd De Freitas, 41, an associate principal at the City Heights school, on Wednesday, according to the San Diego Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2024/03/21/task-force-arrests-hoover-high-associate-principal-on-child-pornography-charges/ 

▫️Mt. Carmel High School teacher arrested on accusations of sexually abusing student
A Mt. Carmel High School teacher has been arrested on suspicion of sexually abusing a student in a relationship that stretched for more than two years, San Diego police said Thursday.
Stacy Michelle Walker, 40, turned herself in and was booked into custody Wednesday night in lieu of more than $400,000 bail, jail records indicate. She was arrested on suspicion of 17 felony counts, all of which are sex crimes, including luring a minor.
https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/pomerado-news/news/story/2024-03-21/mt-carmel-high-school-teacher-arrested-on-accusations-of-sexually-abusing-student 

▫️Two Midland church leaders arrested, charged with child sex crimes
MIDLAND, Mich.  - A Midland church pastor is headed to trial after he was arrested and charged with child sex crimes in November 2023. James Randolph is a minister with Mark Barclay Ministries and works at Living Word Church.
A longtime church member, who left the church and religion, spoke to WNEM-TV5 under the condition of anonymity. They said they have a fear of retaliation by the ministry.
On July 13, 2023, church elder and volunteer, 44-year-old Brandon Saylor, was charged with nine felony sex crimes.
https://www.wnem.com/2024/03/19/two-midland-church-leaders-arrested-charged-with-child-sex-crimes/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Texas Teacher Arrested For Sexual Assault Of Up To 12 Children
Jaden Charles (25), a now former teacher at the Agua Dulce Independent School District in South Texas, has been arrested after it was revealed that she allegedly purchased vapes for underaged males, got them intoxicated, and sexually assaulted them.
She may have a dozen victims. Charles is facing two counts of grooming a child and two counts of aggravated sexual assault of a child.
https://kfmx.com/vile-texas-teacher-arrested-for-sexual-assault-of-up-to-12-children/ 

▫️Harrisburg-area school bus driver arrested, charged with child porn offenses
A 56-year-old Dauphin County man who works as a school bus driver in the Harrisburg area was arrested and charged with possession of child pornography and related offenses on Thursday, police said.
Philip Fry, of Lower Swatara Township, works as a school bus driver for First Student Bus Services, where he transported children in the Steelton/Highspire School District to various private schools in the Harrisburg area, according to a press release.
» https://www.pennlive.com/crime/2024/03/harrisburg-area-school-bus-driver-arrested-charged-with-child-porn-offenses.html
» https://local21news.com/news/local/school-bus-driver-arrested-by-derry-twp-police-on-charges-of-child-sex-abuse 

▫️Fenton families demand resignation of superintendent, school board over staff member sexual abuse allegations
BENSENVILLE, Ill. — Families packed Wednesday night’s school board meeting at Fenton High School, just days after the board voted to fire a staff member over alleged sexual misconduct — a step many families said is too little too late.
“Just firing somebody doesn’t solve the problem,” said Julia Styrczula, a mother of sophomore students.
https://wgntv.com/news/northwest-suburbs/fenton-families-demand-resignation-of-superintendent-school-board-over-staff-member-sexual-abuse-allegations/ 

▫️UPDATE: Hearing set in embezzlement case against CEO of anti-trafficking nonprofit
PROVO — A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for a woman charged with embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations from her nonprofit.
Candace Lierd is the founder and former CEO of a Lehi anti-human trafficking nonprofit Exitus, but is accused of using money donated to the organization for personal expenses. Investigators say she made false claims that she was a nurse or physician, had a position with the United Nations and founded several multimillion-dollar companies.
https://www.ksl.com/article/50957763/hearing-set-in-embezzlement-case-against-ceo-of-anti-trafficking-nonprofit 

▫️Billings man admits to raping child
A girl reporting that she’d been raped led to a Billings man admitting to the crime Thursday in court.
William Ted Tymofichuk, 66, pleaded guilty in Yellowstone County District Court to one count of sexual intercourse without consent, with the victim being under the age of 16.
The girl whom Tymofichuk abused was still a minor in February 2023 when she disclosed to a medical provider that Tymofichuk had raped her. The abuse occurred roughly 10 years prior, court documents said, when Tymofichuk would occasionally babysit her. The medical provider, as mandated by state law, reported the girl’s abuse to the state Department of Public Health and Human Services, which subsequently alerted the Billings Police Department.
https://billingsgazette.com/news/local/crime-courts/billings-man-admits-to-child-rape/article_a9672b3a-e7a2-11ee-8832-13b7e3a68e6d.html 

▫️Colombian arrested while illegally entering US had cartel tattoos and sick videos of people being tortured
A suspected Colombian gangster stopped from illegally entering the US had tattoos linking him to a dangerous drug cartel — and sickening photos on his phone of people being tortured, according to authorities.
The unidentified man was arrested while “attempting to enter the country illegally” in El Paso, Texas, on Thursday last week, Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens said Wednesday along with photos of the suspect, showing his cartel-linked tattoos and a bullet necklace.
https://nypost.com/2024/03/21/us-news/illegal-border-crosser-had-torture-videos-on-his-phone/ 

▫️Last person known to see Elijah Vue faced human trafficking charges in 2015
The man facing child neglect charges in connection to missing Wisconsin boy Elijah Vue was accused of alleged human trafficking and sexually assaulting the child’s mother back in 2015.
Jesse Vang, 39, is currently in jail on a chronic child neglect charge, following the 3-year-old’s disappearance on 20 February.
Now, WBAY reports of a “troubled past” for Mr Vang, Elijah’s mother Katrina Baur and the boy’s biological father Jimmy Vue.
Court documents state that in November 2015 police were called out to a hotel in Appleton, Outagamie County. When they arrived, they found Ms Baur hiding in the bathroom after she got the hotel staff to call 911.
She then told officers that she had been sexually assaulted by two men, one of whom was Mr Vang.
Ms Baur then told officers that she was “their property” and she had been taken to Minnesota to perform sexual acts in exchange for compensation, which included drugs.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/crime/jesse-vang-human-trafficking-charges-elijah-vue-b2516600.html 

▫️Human trafficking summit will address exploitation in Southern Oregon

▫️‘Start changing it;’ Summit aims to put a stop to human trafficking in Ohio
https://www.whio.com/news/local/start-changing-it-summit-aims-put-stop-human-trafficking-ohio/N5GS5Y6M45AZVL3QVTADRAW3WU/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Human Trafficking Awareness Night - The West Volusia Beacon
There will be four speakers: Patrick “Doc” Nave and Rainey Nave, founders of Bikers Against Trafficking in Lake Mary; Christy Gillis, administrator, Circuit 7 Community Development with the Florida Department of Children and Families in Daytona Beach; and Jodi Domangue, executive director of Anti-Trafficking with One More Child in Lakeland. Free. Open to the public.
https://beacononlinenews.com/event/human-trafficking-awareness-night/ 

▫️Public invited to free event focused on human trafficking
SOUTH RANGE — The Range Lions Club with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Range Lounge and the U.P. Human Trafficking Task Force are hosting a free public event to bring the community together to learn more about human trafficking and how we as a community can fight against it here in the Upper Peninsula.
All are welcome to attend the event scheduled from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23, in the Range Lounge and VFW No. 6165, Baltic Avenue M-26, South Range.
https://www.mininggazette.com/news/local-news/2024/03/public-invited-to-free-event-focused-on-human-trafficking/ 

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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️OKC Police: Teen nearly kidnapped at Myriad Botanical Gardens
OKLAHOMA CITY — A police report says a teenage girl was nearly kidnapped recently in broad daylight at the Myriad Botanical Gardens in Oklahoma City.
Police say a 31-year-old man was stalking a group of teenagers at the gardens on Thursday when he allegedly grabbed one of the girls. Police found him later that day and arrested him on counts of stalking, assault and attempted kidnapping.
» https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-city-myriad-botanical-gardens-kidnapping-attempt/60282014 
»

▫️Multiple child exploitation arrests made in Jackson County
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. — A month-long investigation by the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team, or SOCET, has led to multiple arrests.
In this case, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office says undercover law enforcement officers posed as minors online. The operation led to the arrests of 33-year-old Steven Eugene Fitzgerald Buckner, who traveled from Tiger to Jackson County, 29-year-old Gabriel Julian Harrison-Swinden from White City, 57-year-old Kelly Patrick Ramsey of Central Point, and 25-year-old Cayden James Vasquez of Medford. Harrison-Swinden and Ramsey are facing multiple charges including luring a minor.
Steve Bohn with SOCET says investigators have reason to believe these men have victimized other children.
https://kobi5.com/news/top-stories/multiple-child-exploitation-arrests-made-in-jackson-county-224533/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Former Ascension Parish deputy convicted after being accused of getting child pornography
A former Ascension Parish deputy has been sentenced to 234 months in prison following his conviction for receipt of child pornography.
Todd Tripp, 35, of Sorrento, was using an instant messaging app to get child pornography, including at least 15 images, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe Jr.’s office said. He was previously convicted and sentenced for child sexual exploitation and abuse crimes.
The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office said they received a report about a registered sex offender, identified as Tripp, contacting a minor living in another parish.
https://www.brproud.com/news/local-news/former-ascension-parish-deputy-convicted-after-being-accused-of-getting-child-pornography/ 

▫️Springfield man arrested during Bloomington anti-human trafficking operation
SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  — A Springfield man was arrested during an anti-human trafficking operation in the Bloomington area.
According to the Illinois State Police, on March 20, Marcus D. Bender, 24, was arrested and charged with Involuntary Servitude (Class 4 Felony) and Promoting Prostitution (Class 4 Felony).
» https://newschannel20.com/news/local/springfield-man-arrested-during-bloomington-anti-human-trafficking-operation 
»

▫️County commissioner indicted for sexual battery, child molestation
Effingham County Commissioner Reginald “Reggie” Loper was indicted on charges of sexual battery and child molestation on Monday.
Court records show the indictment was approved by a grand jury, and follows his arrest in May 2023 after an investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
As previously reported by Channel 2 Action News, Loper, 84, was accused last year of child abuse and sexual battery. The Effingham County Sheriff’s Office asked the GBI to investigate the allegations in Jan. 2023.
Court documents show Loper was officially indicted on Monday, March 18 in the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit.
» https://www.wtoc.com/2024/03/19/effingham-county-commissioner-indicted-sexual-battery-charges-against-minor/    (VIDEO)
» https://www.effinghamherald.net/local/effingham-commissioner-loper-indicted-two-sexual-battery-charges/
» https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/yall-probably-heard-me-county-commissioner-indicted-sexual-battery-child-molestation/CE5PDJSLCBH57IE7BALRB5UD3I/ (VIDEO) 

▫️Law enforcement shares more about hotel arrest of accused child predator
KINSTON, Lenoir County — After an anonymous call to the Kinston Police Department, a welfare check was done at the Red Carpet Inn.
Officers arrived on scene to find two juveniles who were sexually abused. 60-year-old Timothy Spencer was arrested in Greenville, S.C. and brought back to Kinston and faces two charges - sexual assault of a 9-year-old and of a 16-year-old.
https://wcti12.com/news/local/law-enforcement-shares-more-about-hotel-arrest-of-accused-child-predator   (VIDEO) 

▫️A man and a woman have been arrested on child sexual assault charges
A man and a woman are in jail after police say the woman allowed the man, a known sex offender, to live at her home while she was routinely babysitting children overnight.
Patricia Ann Eglin, 41, and Troy Fountain Howard, 51, are facing charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child.
On Jan. 8, Beaumont police received a report regarding the alleged sexual abuse of three children between 7 and 10 years old at a residence in the 1300 block of Live Oak Street.
Detectives believe more children may have been assaulted that have not been identified. The investigation is on-going and more charges are likely to be filed.
https://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/police-arrested-two-people-sexual-assault-charges-19318926.php 

▫️Jeffrey Dodds and wife testify in child abuse case
Jeffrey and Jill Dodds take the stand in Johnson County court Thursday.
Jeffrey is facing three counts of second-degree sexual abuse from allegations in 2021 that he abused a child at the daycare center he and his wife used to own.
Jill was a city councilwoman in Coralville before she was asked to step down in 2022 when Jeffrey was charged in the case. Prosecutors also played an interview between special investigators and the victim in court where the child described the abuse.
The defense claims the victim is so young -- they don't understand what happened and that the child is just misinterpreting something as abuse.
Jeffrey Dodds is facing anywhere between 25 and 75 years in prison if he's convicted.
https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/jeffrey-dodds-and-wife-testify-in-child-abuse-case (VIDEO) 

▫️ (UPDATE)  Operation Broken Heart: Hayward teacher facing charges of attempting to have sex with children
A Hayward high school teacher is one of six Bay Area men now facing felony charges of attempting to have sex with children. “All I can say is the allegations are really disturbing,” said Michael Bazeley of the Hayward Unified Union School District. “As soon as we found out about his arrest, we acted swiftly and immediately released him from employment.”
He was referring to Joseph Martinez, a substitute English teacher at Tennyson High School.
https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/east-bay/hayward-teacher-criminal-sex-charges/3489953/ 

▫️Fired Florida high school teacher arrested, accused of sex crime against student
Noah Cabiac, 42, worked at Father Lopez Catholic High School in Daytona Beach.
A teacher in Daytona Beach who was fired last year from his job at a Catholic high school was arrested Thursday, accused of a sexual offense against a now-graduated student, according to police.
Noah Cabiac, 42, faces a charge of offense against students by authority figures, records show.
https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2024/03/22/fired-florida-high-school-teacher-arrested-accused-of-sex-crime-against-former-student/ 

▫️Bailed On Child Rape Charge, Man, 49, Again Charged With Sex Crime: PD
EAST HAVEN, CT — In November 2022, East Haven man Widman Vicuna-Rodriguez was charged with the rape and sexual assault of a child known to him beginning when the girl was seven and continued until she was 18, police have said.
Facing multiple felonies, that case is still pending in court. Vicuna-Rodriguez posted a $150,000 surety bond and was released from custody.
Police announced Friday that the now-49-year-old has been charged in connection with a 2023 sexual assault investigation, referred to East Haven police by the state Department of Children and Families. East Haven police Capt. Joseph M. Murgo said the newest probe referred to cops by the agency "came to light during an unrelated DCF investigation."
Murgo said Friday that in July 2023, Detective Monique Colbert, who led the investigation, was contacted by DCF. During that investigation, it was revealed that Vicuna-Rodriguez sexually assaulted a minor known to him in 2017 during a gathering at his East Haven home
https://patch.com/connecticut/easthaven/bailed-child-rape-charge-man-49-again-charged-sex-crime-pd 

▫️West Columbia Man Arrested on Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor and Related Charges
South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Joshua Louis Cunningham, 20, of West Columbia, S.C., on two charges connected to the sexual exploitation of minors. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Lexington County Sheriff's Department made the arrest.   
Investigators state Cunningham engaged in criminal sexual conduct with a minor and manufactured files of child sexual abuse material.*
Cunningham was arrested on March 21, 2024. He is charged with one count of criminal sexual conduct with a minor; and one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, first degree, a felony offense punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment.
https://www.scag.gov/about-the-office/news/west-columbia-man-arrested-on-criminal-sexual-conduct-with-a-minor-and-related-charges-1/

▫️California predator arrested for allegedly placing hidden camera inside Starbucks bathroom that filmed 91 victims
A “violent predator” in California allegedly filmed 91 unsuspecting people, some as young as 4 years old, with a hidden camera secretly hidden inside a Starbucks bathroom.
Louie Juarez Jr. is suspected of placing the camera underneath the bathroom sink at the coffee shop in San Jose, propping the device to face the toilet, on Jan. 31, according to San Jose Police.
The camera had been recording between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., where the victims whose ages range from 4 to 85 years old, were filmed in “extremely graphic” footage before an employee made the disturbing discovery.
https://nypost.com/2024/03/23/us-news/california-predator-arrested-for-allegedly-placing-hidden-camera-inside-starbucks-bathroom-that-filmed-91-victims/ 

▫️Beverly Hills marriage therapist who charges Hollywood elites $750-per-session is arrested for 'distributing child porn after driving nearly 200 miles to have sex with 13-year-old girl who turned out to be undercover cop'
A man who claimed to be a marriage and family therapist to the stars, based in ritzy  Beverly Hills, is now facing federal charges for allegedly distributing child pornography.
Ron Gad, 49, a married father to two boys, was arrested in San Luis Obispo in October of 2022 after authorities allege he engaged in sexually explicit chats online with a 13-year-old girl.
While his social media biographies boast of providing therapy to some of the most renowned actors and producers in Hollywood and famous professional athletes, he now faces serious allegations.
A search Gad's digital devices revealed 'child pornography, as well as communications with suspected minors, and internet searches related to sex with minors,' the affidavit states, together with a host of bookmarked websites that hosted child porn. 
According to a 30-page affidavit, Gad distributed child sex abuse material involving a child aged 12 or under on the internet and shipped the material to other states in December of 2021.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13230113/Beverly-Hills-psychologist-Ron-Gad-met-girl-online-undercover-cop.html 

▫️Former child star Drake Bell lays bare the 'unspeakable and brutal' abuse he suffered at the hands of Nickelodeon dialogue coach Brian Peck when he was just 15: 'It was the worst stuff somebody can do to a person' | Daily Mail Online
Former child star Drake Bell has laid bare the 'unspeakable' and 'brutal' sexual abuse that he suffered at the hands of his Nickelodeon dialogue coach Brian Peck when he was just 15, describing it as 'the worst stuff somebody could do to a person.'
The Nickelodeon alum, now 37, spoke out about the harrowing trauma that he endured while filming The Amanda Show in the upcoming ID four-part docuseries, Quiet On Set: The Dark Side Of Kids TV.
» https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-13192109/drake-bell-child-abuse-nickelodeon-brian-peck-dialogue-coach.html
» https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/03/22/actor-drake-bell-accuses-former-nickelodeon-dialogue-coach-of-sexual-abuse 

▫️More Massage Parlors Than Starbucks in Kansas - The Chinese Triad Connection
Today, we're discussing a concerning trend in Kansas and beyond: the spread of massage parlors linked to Chinese triads and their role in human trafficking. Senator Roger Marshall highlights a scenario where the number of these parlors has overtaken Starbucks locations, indicating a hidden crisis of exploitation and crime. 

▫️Keynote speaker at human trafficking disruption summit shares her story
ASHLAND, Ore. – Organizations that work to end human trafficking, support victims, and help keep people from falling into cycles of exploitation brought a unique summit to Ashland this weekend.
The Southern Oregon Human Trafficking Disruption Summit is the first of its kind to educate the community, not just connect organizations to work together. 210 community members were registered for the two-day event.
Rebecca Bender speaks at Human Trafficking Summit in Ashland:
» https://www.kdrv.com/news/top-stories/keynote-speaker-at-human-trafficking-disruption-summit-shares-her-story/article_93484b62-e89d-11ee-9f5b-43d8558dbfdd.html 
»

▫️Shed Light on Trafficking Conference aims to educate on child trafficking
A conference being held in April at West Acres Baptist Church looks to shed a light on child trafficking.
The Shed Light on Trafficking Conference will be taking place April 25 and 26 at West Acres Baptist Church.
It’s focused on identifying and then what to do if you identify a child being trafficked. 
https://www.wjbf.com/news/special-reports/hidden-in-plain-sight/shed-light-on-trafficking-conference-aims-to-educate-on-child-trafficking/ 
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[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Eleven men arrested in DPD human trafficking investigation
DOTHAN, Ala.  - Eleven men are behind bars after a Dothan Police Department cyber operation uncovered the men trying to meet juveniles for sex.
DPD, along with Covenant Rescue Group, an organization that supports law enforcement in the investigation of child exploitation, had online chats with people looking for sex.
» https://www.wtvy.com/2024/03/25/eleven-men-arrested-dpd-human-trafficking-investigation/
» https://www.wdhn.com/news/online-human-trafficking-sting-leads-to-11-arrests-police/ 

▫️Former coach accused of drugging, raping boys faces more charges in new federal indictment
FRANKLIN, Tenn. - A former children’s soccer coach is accused of raping more than a dozen children in Tennessee, according to the Department of Justice.
On March 6, Camilo Campos-Hurtado, 63, was indicted on continuous sexual abuse of a child, 14 counts of rape, six counts of especially aggravated sexual exploitation and four counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and aggravated rape, among other charges.
Campos was accused of recording himself raping unconscious boys between the ages of 9 and 17, many of which were drugged during the attacks, according to the Franklin Police Department.
As the case continues, the DOJ and Franklin Police are urging more people to come forward if they have any information about the conduct alleged in the indictment by contacting the Franklin Police Department at (615) 550-6829 or the Department of Homeland Security at (866) 347-2423.
https://www.kplctv.com/2024/03/24/former-coach-accused-drugging-raping-boys-faces-more-charges-new-federal-indictment/ (VIDEO) 

▫️Operation Early Spring: Four registered sex offenders found noncompliant during operation in Cabell County area
Four registered sex offenders were found noncompliant during a weeklong operation in the Cabell County area recently, officials said. One sex offender wanted by West Virginia State Police was arrested in Maryland by U.S. Marshals during the operation. A missing juvenile was also found, the news release said.
https://www.usmarshals.gov/news/press-release/us-marshals-wv-state-police-announce-results-of-operation-early-spring 

▫️Two Arkansas men arrested for child sexual abuse materials
TEXARKANA, Ark. — Arkansas State Police (ASP) have arrested two men in separate cases related to child sexual abuse materials. 
According to ASP, 27-year-old Gregory Westbrook was arrested on March 8, 2024 and is now being charged with 250 counts of distributing, possessing, or viewing child sexual abuse material. 
In a separate case, authorities in Texarkana announced that they arrested 38-year-old Jonathan McLean on March 14. McLean was transported to the Miller County Detention Center where he is being charged with 100 counts of distributing, possessing, or viewing child sexual abuse material.
https://www.thv11.com/article/news/crime/two-arkansas-men-arrested-child-sexual-abuse-materials/91-c0f9301d-051a-4878-9d9f-c126a2e509b5 

▫️Tim Tebow Partners With Sentinel Foundation To Rescue 59 Orphans With Disabilities From Haiti
Football legend Tim Tebow and his foundation teamed up the Sentinel Foundation, a nonprofit team of veteran commandos, to successfully evacuate dozens of orphans with disabilities from Haiti as the island nation suffers with record levels of gang violence, and thousands more remain trapped.
» https://www.foxnews.com/video/6349589000112   (VIDEO)
» https://ussanews.com/2024/03/24/tim-tebow-partners-with-sentinel-foundation-to-rescue-59-orphans-with-disabilities-from-haiti-as-gangs-terrorize-the-island-nation/ 

▫️Lawsuit in New Mexico alleges abuse by a Catholic priest decades ago
LAS CRUCES, N.M.  — A man who says he was sexually abused as a boy by a priest in New Mexico in the 1960s sued the church and diocese this week, the latest case to surface in the state as the Roman Catholic Church wrestles with the global clergy sex abuse scandal.
The suit filed Tuesday in state district court in Las Cruces seeks unspecified compensation for the unnamed victim. His lawyers say he is now 62 and has been “suffering in silence for over 50 years.”
It details alleged abuse by the Rev. Lawrence Gaynor, who died in 1978 at age 75. Gaynor was included in a list of accused priests that was released by the El Paso diocese in 2019.
https://apnews.com/article/new-mexico-priest-abuse-lawsuit-catholic-97838fba56c6e3038770e32c0a406d28 

▫️New Orleans priest Lawrence Hecker still needs mental evaluation
The trial for a New Orleans priest accused of raping and kidnapping a child in the 1970s is still set for next week despite attorneys push for a mental competency evaluation.
Lawrence Hecker's attorney was in court Thursday where it was announced that he had not undergone a mental evaluation yet. The prosecutors in the case said that if they needed to bring Hecker in on a gurney, they would. Prosecutors said he appeared to be fine and resting comfortably.
https://www.wdsu.com/article/new-orleans-lawrence-hecker-trial-delayed/60266253 

▫️Man sentenced to life in prison for continuous child sexual abuse
AMARILLO, Texas - The 47th District Attorney’s Office announced today a jury sentenced a man to life in prison for continuous sexual abuse of a child.
Desmond Darnes was charged with sexually abusing a child under the age of 14 in multiple ways over several years.
Officials say the abuse happened in 2012 and 2013, and the victim did not disclose the abuse until much later.
https://www.newschannel10.com/2024/03/25/man-sentenced-life-prison-continuous-child-sexual-abuse/ 

▫️New Mexico human trafficking shelter works around the clock for victims
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Back in December, News 13 reported on the state’s newest human trafficking shelter working to open its doors to survivors. Just last month, they turned that dream into reality.
»

▫️Healing Action supports survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation
St. Louis – The city ranks 16th in the United States for human trafficking. 
A local organization is helping survivors through peer support, basic needs assistance, and trauma therapy. 
Fox 2’s Jasmine Huda spoke with the co-founders of St. Louis-based Healing Action about how it is helping those who experienced sex trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation. 
https://fox2now.com/news/pulse-of-st-louis/healing-action-supports-survivors-of-human-trafficking-and-sexual-exploitation/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Human Trafficking in Central Florida - Awareness and Action Training Tickets, Sat, Apr 13, 2024 at 10;00 AM
This presentation is appropriate for audiences 14 y. and older; parent consent for attendees 17 y. and under is required at event check-in.
This training has been vetted by the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime and the Human Trafficking Collaborative.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/human-trafficking-in-central-florida-awareness-and-action-training-tickets-737404365307 

▫️Marion County Human Trafficking Taskforce Training Tickets, Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 5;30 PM
Join us for an informative and impactful event on human trafficking! The Marion County Human Trafficking Taskforce Training will be held in person at 402 South Pine Avenue, Ocala, FL, USA
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marion-county-human-trafficking-taskforce-training-tickets-830580959007 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

Everyone Named in P. Diddy’s Sex Abuse Lawsuits — Full List (prince Harry)

P. Diddy's Homes Raided by FBI — Everything We Know

Full List of Celebrities Named in Diddy Court Filing
https://www.newsweek.com/celebrities-named-diddy-lawsuit-1883698 

Prince Harry named in $30m Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sexual assault lawsuit
https://www.aol.co.uk/news/prince-harry-named-30million-sean-163300347.html?guccounter=1 

Prince Harry named in civil lawsuit against rapper P. Diddy | Royal | News | Express.co.uk
https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1881673/prince-harry-p-diddy-sean-combs-lawsuit 

Biggest Bombshell Allegations in Diddy's Lawsuits: Rape, Sex Trafficking and More
https://people.com/sean-diddy-combs-lawsuits-biggest-bombshell-allegations-sex-trafficking-rape-8620475 

Prince Harry's Name Surfaces in Sex Trafficking Lawsuit Against Sean 'Diddy' Combs – RedState
https://redstate.com/jeffc/2024/03/26/prince-harry-named-in-sex-trafficking-lawsuit-against-sean-diddy-combs-n2171947 

[Pompeii]

Who's in the News?

▫️Former Delano police chief arrested on suspicion of contacting minor for sex
DELANO, Calif.  — A Tuesday night arrest at a motel off Olive and Knudsen drives in north Bakersfield is sounding the alarm for parents and young children. The suspect — former Delano police chief, 68-year-old Mark DeRosia.
DeRosia was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of contacting a minor with the intent to commit sexual acts, as well as arranging to meet a minor with the intent to commit sexual acts.
» https://www.kget.com/news/crime-watch/former-delano-police-chief-arrested-on-suspicion-of-contacting-a-minor-for-sex/   (VIDEO)
 » https://www.kget.com/news/crime-watch/new-details-on-former-delano-police-chief-arrested-for-contacting-minor-for-sex/   (VIDEO)
»

▫️ (UPDATE)  Operation Sweet Tee:  Polk County Police Department assisted with an investigation that led to the arrests of child predators
Grovetown - Beginning Thursday evening through early Sunday morning, undercover agents and investigators were engaged with over 1000 individuals, via the internet, of which 157 verified adults expressed a desire to meet for sexual activity, despite being advised that they were conversing with a “child.”
Of that number, 12 individuals stated that they would be willing to travel to meet with the “child” for sex and offered payment in exchange.
Investigators are working to positively identify the remaining individuals engaged in the solicitation and additional charges and arrests are expected.
https://fetchyournews.com/featured-stories/polk-county-police-department-assisted-with-an-investigation-that-led-to-the-arrests-of-child-predators/ 

▫️Redwood City police arrest man on suspicion of human trafficking
Detectives conducted a long-term investigation into reports of human trafficking in Redwood City, police said.
Last December, officers came in contact with a victim of trafficking at a hotel in town. Marques Coleman, 33, was identified as a suspect in the case and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On Wednesday, Alameda County probation officers took him into custody and searched his residence. Police seized evidence allegedly related to human trafficking.
Coleman was booked into Santa Rita jail on suspicion of felony pimping and pandering.
https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/redwood-city-police-arrest-man-on-suspicion-of-human-trafficking/ 

▫️Operation Juicebox: a movement aimed to prevent online child predators
MASON COUNTY, W.Va.  - Two men have been arrested in separate incidents for child solicitation by computer in Mason County in the last two weeks. Law enforcement said these arrests were made possible with the help of one man, Olive Hugh, leading the charge in what he calls “Operation Juicebox.”
“If you’re a 40-year-old man, you should not be trying to communicate and meet up with 12, 13, 14-year-old girls,” Mason County Sheriff Corey Miller said.
Hugh said he started the multi-state movement back in 2020 with the intent to disguise himself as a minor, talk with these adults, and arrange meetups. But in reality they are meeting up officers -- the movement happening all while being overseen by law enforcement
https://www.wsaz.com/2024/03/27/operation-juicebox-movement-aimed-prevent-online-child-predators/ 

▫️Former director of Dublin VA Hospital arrested on child sex charges
The Dublin VA Hospital's former Executive Medical Center Director is currently free on bond, after being arrested for child sex charges. 
Manuel Davila started with the Carl Vinson VA Medical Center in 2022, and he stayed there until January 2024 when he was reassigned to a regional VA hospital. A few months later, on Marh 4, Davila resigned from the VA completely. 
On March 25, employees at Fairview Park Hospital called the Laurens County Sheriff's Office about a possible child molestation. After their initial investigation, deputies arrested Davila the next day. 
He's charged with four counts of child molestation, cruelty to children to the first degree, and enticing a child for indecent purposes.
» https://www.13wmaz.com/article/news/local/dublin/former-director-dublin-va-hospital-arrested-child-sex-charges-molestation-cruelty-first-degree-children-medical-center-danger-innocent-guilty/93-211a34b7-e71f-4e22-9689-65fc27c3e896   (VIDEO)
»

▫️Hidden camera found in staff bathroom at children’s hospital in Rhode Island: police
PROVIDENCE, R.I.  — Police in Rhode Island have arrested a hospital employee accused of placing a hidden camera in a staff bathroom. Jason Baker, 47, has been charged with video voyeurism.
Baker is accused of putting a USB wall charger outfitted with a hidden camera inside a locked staff bathroom at Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence.
The hidden camera was found Tuesday by a staffer and immediately removed from the bathroom, according to a hospital spokesperson. She added that the bathroom where the camera was found is inaccessible to patients and members of the public.
https://fox59.com/news/national-world/hidden-camera-found-in-staff-bathroom-at-childrens-hospital-in-rhode-island-police/   (VIDEO) 

▫️Nine Mile Falls man uses hidden cameras to produce child pornography, sentenced to 20 years
SPOKANE, Wash. — A Nine Mile Falls man was sentenced to two decades in prison for using hidden cameras to produce child pornography.
According to the U.S. District Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Washington, between May 2021 and May 2022, Robert Wayne Hutton, 60, secretly recorded a child in the bathroom.
The attorney's office said Hutton placed the camera in a clock radio on the bathroom counter. Hutton then used the footage to produce child pornography.
https://www.nonstoplocal.com/spokane/news/nine-mile-falls-man-uses-hidden-cameras-to-produce-child-pornography-sentenced-to-20-years/article_b7a612f1-a569-5881-b511-a27e29aa76af.html 

▫️Texarkana man arrested for alleged child grooming faces another charge
A Texarkana man charged with two counts of child grooming has been re-arrested on a charge of online solicitation of a minor.
Matthew Riddle was booked into jail Monday, and later released on a $100,000 bond. Riddle had been released earlier this month on a $200,000 bond on the child grooming charges.
He was allegedly sending sexually suggestive messages and videos to girls under the age of 18. The arrest was a first in Bowie County for the offense.
Grooming refers to an act of deliberately establishing a connection with a child in an attempt to subject them to sexual abuse or human trafficking.
https://www.ktbs.com/news/texarkana/texarkana-man-arrested-for-alleged-child-grooming-faces-another-charge/article_506fdd44-ec82-11ee-934a-b7b47d6726ea.html  

▫️Polygamist leader offered plea deal in child sexual exploitation case
PHOENIX — Less than two years after his arrest outside of Flagstaff, the polygamist leader Samuel Bateman is expected to take a plea deal in federal court on April 1.
New records filed in court on Wednesday show that Bateman and his co-conspirators have each been offered deals relating to sex trafficking of minors, child pornography, kidnapping, conspiracy and tampering with evidence, among the dozens of counts they face.
» https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/arizona/samuel-bateman-offered-plea-deal-in-child-sexual-exploitation-case/75-9f61825a-3745-41f6-9886-d9f04a042268   (VIDEO)
»

▫️Police: Predator Catchers PA sting leads to Lower Burrell man's arrest
A Lower Burrell man is facing child pornography charges after, police say, he was confronted by a civilian group dedicated to catching child predators.
David J. Holmes, 54, was charged Tuesday by Lower Burrell police with 26 felony counts of child pornography, and one count each of felony unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors.
Police were dispatched on Feb. 18 to a parking lot in the 2700 block of Leechburg Road to assist Shafiq Blake, who said he works for Predator Catchers PA, an organization that exposes child predators.
Blake was actively confronting Holmes, police wrote in a complaint, and, according to Blake, Holmes thought he was speaking with a 13-year-old girl during conversations online and was at the parking lot to meet her for sex.
https://triblive.com/local/valley-news-dispatch/police-predator-catchers-pa-sting-leads-to-lower-burrell-mans-arrest/ 

▫️Moses Lake man arrested in child sexual abuse investigation
MOSES LAKE, Wash. - A Moses Lake man was arrested on Tuesday after efforts from local, state, and federal police found child sex abuse material during investigations and while executing search warrants at his home. 
Michael Boyer, 67, now faces 15 counts of possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. 
» https://www.khq.com/news/moses-lake-man-arrested-for-child-sex-abuse-material-posession/article_e3895026-ec49-11ee-838b-1343e7ceab87.html   (VIDEO)
 » https://www.krem.com/article/news/crime/moses-lake-man-15-counts-of-child-sexual-abuse-material-possession/293-91eda04a-3cbc-44ca-b5f8-d17bcd9b6427
»

▫️Jefferson County man facing charges in second sexual abuse case
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — In December, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department said a man accused of sexually abusing a young girl for years was believed to have more victims. Months later, the man is facing several new charges in another case in St. Louis County.
Benjamin Sexton Jr. was charged Monday with three counts each of second-degree statutory rape and statutory sodomy and one count of first-degree child endangerment involving drugs.
According to a probable cause statement, Sexton, 47, sexually abused a 14-year-old girl between July 15 and Nov. 23, 2023. Police said Sexton would also make the girl smoke a white powdery substance. She later tested positive for methamphetamine.
Sexton was charged in December with 15 crimes in a separate case, including eight counts of statutory rape or attempted statutory rape and six counts of statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy in connection.
According to charges, the alleged incidents in the first case dated back more than seven years, beginning when the girl was 7 years old, and took place in multiple counties in the St. Louis area.
https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/new-charges-filed-against-man-accused-statutory-rape/63-dfcea715-c70d-40b0-aa35-07c1050546fa 

▫️ (UPDATE) Child trafficking arrests in Philippines connected to former West Bend Schools custodian
WEST BEND, Wis. - An international investigation led to child pornography possession and child trafficking charges against a former suburban Milwaukee school custodian.
The Washington County Sheriff's Office says Michael Westphal's alleged crimes led to a raid in the Philippines. The criminal complaint said the child in the videos Westphal purchased was a two-year-old girl.Police there arrested three people and rescued six children. 
Authorities say a search of is home in Newburg, Wisconsin and his devices revealed pornographic content like videos of young children being sexually abused. 
The West Bend School District confirms he worked at an elementary school. Investigators say he denied doing anything inappropriate with the children there. 
» https://www.wisn.com/article/child-trafficking-arrests-in-philippines-connected-to-former-west-bend-schools-custodian/60323560   (VIDEO)
» https://www.fox6now.com/video/1431642   (VIDEO)
» https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/local-news/investigation-after-wisconsin-mans-arrest-culminates-with-raid-in-philippines-3-human-traffickers-arrested-6-children-rescued/ 

▫️Prominent Ivy League LGBTQ activist, 53, is arrested on child porn charges at his home near Princeton University
An LGBTQ activist with top degrees from Harvard, Yale and Princeton is facing up to five years in jail on charges of downloading child porn.
Roy 'Trey' Farmer, 53, was arrested at his home opposite the gates of Princeton in New Jersey on Friday after a tip-off from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)
The former 'piano prodigy' sits on the board of the New York Philharmonic and is president of Queer Princeton Alumni, but it has since had his details removed from their website.
A successful banker and entrepreneur, he is a former president of the Harvard Glee Club and has served on the boards of orchestras and opera companies across the world.
He is also chairman of Florida's StayInMay Festival which has staged more than 300 events in Naples over the last ten years.
The NCMEC alerted detectives with Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit in January that child sexual abuse material had been downloaded in Mercer County where Princeton is situated.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13246471/Princeton-LGBTQ-alumni-roy-farmer-Ivy-League.html 

▫️Former high school teacher who tried to meet person who he thought was 17-year-old girl for sex learns his sentence
WALNUTPORT, Pa. - A former high school teacher from Northampton County who tried to meet who he thought was a 17-year-old girl for sex has been sentenced.
Michael Feifel, 56, of Walnutport, pleaded guilty Jan. 4 to charges of unlawful contact with a minor and criminal use of a communication facility, both third-degree felonies, according to a news release from the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office.
Feifel was sentenced Wednesday to serve 12 months less a day to 24 months less a day in Lehigh County Jail, followed by a consecutive period of 12 months of probation supervision, the DA's office said.
» https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/lehighvalley/former-high-school-teacher-who-tried-to-meet-who-he-thought-was-17-year-old/article_d929dd0e-ec8e-11ee-9164-cbb8532c6c77.html
» https://www.mcall.com/2024/03/28/former-lehighton-area-high-school-teacher-sentenced-to-jail-in-sex-trafficking-investigation/  

▫️Missouri boarding school closes as state agency examines how it responded to abuse claims
A rural Missouri boarding school at the center of abuse allegations has closed its doors, and a state agency is trying to determine if it adequately responded to previous concerns about the facility in calls to an abuse hotline.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/ap/article-13245967/Missouri-boarding-school-closes-state-agency-examines-responded-abuse-claims.html  

▫️Massive child porn stash unveils dark world of online exploitation
SAN ANTONIO - A man accused of having a massive stash of child pornography on his computer is behind bars.
Tyristenn Mclelland, 21, is facing several charges, including possession and distribution of child pornography.
Upon further examination, authorities uncovered thousands of images depicting children, as young as 2 years old, enduring horrifying sexual abuse.
And that's not all. "Additionally, it appears as though there was some exchange of videos again, disturbing as it as it may sound, involving sex between animals and human beings as well, which again leads us to the bestiality charge," said Sheriff Salazar.
And last week, Falcone Ybarra, 19, was arrested for online solicitation of a minor and possession of child pornography. Sheriff Salazar said that Ybarra allegedly posed as a 14-year-old girl to lure unsuspecting victims into explicit conversations and meetings.
https://foxsanantonio.com/newsletter-daily/mans-massive-child-porn-bestiality-and-online-exploitation-operation-exposed-crime-safety-children-arrest-suspect-san-antonio-bexar-county  (VIDEO) 

▫️Omar Galeana Accused of Sexually Abusing Encinitas Middle School Student
An employee at Diegueño Middle School in Encinitas identified as Omar Galeana was arrested for allegedly sexually abusing a 12-year-old student.
San Diego County officials are saying that the alleged assault took place last Friday off-campus. Omar Galeana, 21, worked as a campus supervisor at Diegueño Middle School in Encinitas.
Someone reported that he met with the 12-year-old outside of normal school hours, which led to an investigation. Following that investigation, Omar Galeana was arrested and is currently being held on $1 million bail.
https://www.carrillofirm.com/omar-galeana-accused-of-sexually-abusing-encinitas-middle-school-student/ 

▫️Human trafficker gets more prison for recruiting women, forcing sex work, setting quotas
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.  — A human trafficker who "recruited two women from New York to Florida, and then forced them into sex work," is headed back to prison.
According to Florida’s Attorney General’s Office, Alan Dixon “set payment quotas for each day, coercing the victims into dates through threats of violence and took all funds for the illicit services.”
» https://floridianpress.com/2024/03/ashley-moody-secures-15-year-sentence-for-human-trafficker/
» https://kfoxtv.com/news/news-now/human-trafficker-sentencedyears-prison-florida-attorney-general-office-alan-dixon-accomplice-shantell-woods-recruiting-women-forcing-sex-work-payment-quota-threat-violence-ny-new-york 

▫️Smithfield man convicted of sexually abusing 2 girls now charged with abusing a 3rd girl
LOGAN — A 41-year-old Smithfield man, awaiting sentencing for raping and sexually abusing two girls, is now facing new allegations of sexually abusing another child years ago. Joshua Coti Lippold remains in the Cache County Jail since being arrested September 2022.
Lippold was charged Tuesday, March 26, with one count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a 1st degree felony. He is scheduled to be arraigned April 17 in Ogden’s 2nd District Court.
https://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/archive/2024/03/27/smithfield-man-convicted-of-sexually-abusing-2-girls-now-charged-with-abusing-a-3rd-girl/ 

▫️Wander Franco 'is placed on administrative leave until June 1' as the Tampa Bay Rays shortstop stands accused of having sexual relationship with a girl, 14, and paying off her mother in the Dominican Republic
Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco has reportedly been placed on administrative leave amid criminal proceedings into his alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor. 
Franco, 23, faces accusations in his native Dominican Republic of sexual and psychological abuse of a 14-year-old girl, allegedly having a relationship with the teenager and paying her mother thousands of dollars for her consent.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/mlb/article-13249243/wander-franco-administrative-leave-mlb-tampa-bay-rays.html 

▫️EXCLUSIVE: Female Inmate Sexually Assaulted By Violent Trans-Identified Male At Washington Women's Prison
A female inmate at the Women’s Correctional Center in Washington has come forward to reveal that she was sexually assaulted by a violent transgender sex offender who was transferred into the women’s prison in 2021.
Mary explains that the incident occurred in April of 2022 after a transgender inmate named Christopher Williams asked to be moved into her cell. Williams had previously been serving his sentence at a male facility, and has a criminal history including sex offenses and violent assault.
Williams, who has not changed his legal name or sex, was reportedly transferred into WCCW around the same time the facility saw a wave of transgender males being moved into the female estate in 2021.
» https://reduxx.info/exclusive-female-inmate-sexually-assaulted-by-violent-trans-identified-male-at-washington-womens-prison/
» https://thepeoplesvoice.tv/california-to-begin-putting-male-rapists-into-womens-prisons-gender-is-a-social-construct/ 

▫️ICE investigation leads to convicted child molester’s indictment for naturalization fraud | ICE
RALEIGH, N.C. – On March 20, 2024, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Robert Davis, a 67-year-old naturalized citizen of the United States, born in Malaysia, with naturalization fraud.
According to the indictment, on May 9, 2017, Davis fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship by making a false statement under oath regarding his naturalization application. In response to the question “Have you ever committed, assisted in committing, or attempted to commit, a crime or offense for which you were not arrested?” he answered “no.” He also denied having ever forced anyone to have sexual contact or sexual relations.
On Feb. 2, 2024, in the Superior Court of North Carolina in Guilford County, Davis was convicted of indecent acts with a child and attempted first-degree sexual offense. Davis confessed to having committed the crimes between Jan. 30, 2004 and Dec. 30, 2005. The victim was a 5-year-old girl. Davis was sentenced to more than 16 years of imprisonment, in part because of a prior federal conviction in 2021 for possessing child pornography in the Middle District of North Carolina which resulted in a 14-year prison sentence.
https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/ice-investigation-leads-convicted-child-molesters-indictment-naturalization-fraud 

▫️California Man Sentenced To More Than 13 Years For Distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material Using Stolen Online Identity, Ordered To Pay $81,500 In Restitution To Child Victims
Jacksonville, Florida – United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Jason Charles Nicholas (54, Ramona, California) to 13 years and 4 months in federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material over the internet using a stolen online identity. Nicholas was also ordered to serve a 10-year term of supervised release, register as a sex offender, and pay $81,500 in restitution to child victims. Nicholas was arrested in San Diego County, California on September 21, 2023.
https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/california-man-sentenced-more-13-years-distributing-child-sexual-abuse-material-using 

▫️Activists raise awareness for sex trafficking
https://youtu.be/P9l9e_KrD-I▫️Webinar: Human Trafficking & Exploitation Prevention
Strategies for Vulnerable Students, Human Trafficking & Exploitation Prevention 
Wednesday, March 27, 2024 | 3;00 – 4;30 PM ET
https://safesupportivelearning.ed.gov/sites/default/files/2024-03/Speaker Bios_HTWebinar18_2024.3.27.pdf 

 

▫️Human Trafficking Leadership Program & CDL Public Awareness Campaign - The National Judicial College
NJC will implement a nationwide judicial leadership and public awareness campaign to combat human trafficking and incorporate best practice and recommendations. NJC will educate judges so the know of the federal law as it pertains to trafficking victims and will provide tools and encouragement to help judges become leaders on this important topic.
https://www.judges.org/courses/human-trafficking-leadership-program-cdl-public-awareness-campaign/ 

▫️Community Event on Human Trafficking: Sunday, April 14th | Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS®
The Hadassah of Greater Albuquerque, an American Jewish Women's Organization is hosting a community awareness event at GAAR on Sunday, April 14th.
Register to attend in person or via ZOOM by clicking the flyer below.
Questions? Please contact Evie at eviezlotkin@aol.com or 505-639-1112.
https://www.gaar.com/blog/article/recognize-human-trafficking-sunday-april-14th 

▫️Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children Awareness Training : The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy
Friday, April 12th, 2024 from 10:00am to 12:00pm, Virtually via Zoom
https://georgiacenterforchildadvocacy.org/what-we-do/prevention/trainings/training-calendar.html/event/2024/04/12/commercial-sexual-exploitation-of-children-awareness-training/475211  
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(UPDATE #3)

▫️Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ private jet returns to South Florida following raids
https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/sean-diddy-combs-private-jet-returns-to-south-florida-following-raids/3270345/  (VIDEO) 

▫️Electronic devices seized in sex trafficking investigation against Sean 'Diddy' Combs

▫️Former Syracuse basketball player charged in ‘Diddy’ sex-trafficking investigation
»

▫️Diddy Associate's Arrest Captured on Body Cam Video, Led Away in Cuffs
https://www.tmz.com/2024/03/27/diddy-associate-brendan-paul-arrest-body-cam-video-led-away-cuffs-airport/ 

▫️Who is Brendan Paul? Diddy's alleged 'drug mule'
https://nypost.com/2024/03/26/us-news/who-is-brendan-paul-diddys-alleged-drug-mule/  

▫️Cuba Gooding Jr. added to Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sexual assault lawsuit
» https://ktla.com/entertainment/cuba-gooding-jr-added-to-sean-diddy-combs-sexual-assault-lawsuit/   (VIDEO)
» https://www.ketk.com/news/cuba-gooding-jr-added-to-sean-diddy-combs-sexual-assault-lawsuit/  

▫️Sean 'Diddy' Combs lawsuit names 50 Cent's ex-girlfriend as one of music moguls alleged sex workers
https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/sean-diddy-combs-lawsuit-names-50-cents-ex-girlfriend-one-music-moguls-alleged-sex-workers   (VIDEO) 

▫️Diddy blamed by victim of 1999 nightclub shooting, wants case reopened,
Victim Natania Reuben insists Sean 'Diddy' Combs pulled trigger in 1999 NYC nightclub shooting
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2024/03/28/sean-combs-diddy-nyc-nightclub-shooting-victim-reaction-natania-reuben/73131979007/   (VIDEO) 

▫️How Diddy has been the focus of five separate lawsuits with claims spanning three decades in the last few months even before feds carried out dual raids on his LA and Miami mansions as part of a sex-trafficking investigation
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13245147/Diddy-five-lawsuits-house-raid.html   (VIDEO) 

▫️‘No Doubt’ P. Diddy Will Face Sex Trafficking Charges: FBI Agent

▫️Meek Mill’s Lawyer Speaks On P. Diddy Scandal: ‘Get Ready’