Multi-agency sex sting operation nets 18 accused predators

Las Vegas, NV (KXNT) A multi-agency operation targeting online child sex predators led to 18 arrests in Henderson, on April 26 and 27th.

The two-day Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) joint operation included detectives and agents from the ICAC Task Force and the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, to include the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Henderson Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, US Air Force Office of Special Investigation, and the Nevada Attorney General.

In the operation, undercover agents posed as underage juveniles. After being solicited for sex by the adult suspects, a meeting was set up and the suspects were taken into custody.

Those arrested were: Andrew Lashaway, 42; Carlos Gaytan-Nunez, 33; Carmelo Ventura-Arce, 30; David Rivera, 28; David Flores, 30; Derick Coleman, 25; Engels Marcelino, 43; Faustino Ruesga-Valle, 30; Felix Lanz, 32; Fernando Francisco Jr., 35; Heron Cruz, 40; Justin Maynes, 25; Justin Sullivan, 21; Leonardo Bueso, 42; Noel Arciga-Solis, 26, and Michael Torres, 22. They all face charges for Luring a Minor with a Computer to Engage in Sex.

In addition, Victor Quintana, 37, and Jeremiah Lopez, 24, were arrested and face charges for Attempt Sexual Assault of a Minor under 14.

Anyone who may have been a victim of any of these subjects or has information about their crimes is urged to contact the LVMPD Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force by phone at 702-828-3111. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 702-385-5555, or on the internet at www.crimestoppersofnv.com .