Wyoming County, W.Va. – In a coordinated five‑day effort known as Operation Black Lantern, law‑enforcement agencies from Wyoming County and neighboring McDowell County arrested four men suspected of attempting to solicit and meet individuals they believed were girls under the age of 16. The operation was carried out by the Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office, the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, and the nonprofit Veterans 4 Child Rescue.

Arrests and Charges

The four suspects and their alleged offenses are as follows:

• Johnathan Rutan, 27, of Ripley – held on a $125,000 bond for soliciting a minor via computer, traveling to engage in prohibited sexual activity with a minor, and possessing a firearm while committing a felony.
• Marlon Enrique Perez, of El Salvador – held on a $90,000 bond for soliciting a minor via computer and traveling to engage in prohibited sexual activity. Investigators also noted that Perez is reportedly unlawfully present in the United States.
• John Michael Beckwith, 44, of Charleston – held on a $90,000 bond for soliciting a minor via computer and traveling to engage in prohibited sexual activity.
• Austin Hunter Cox, 36, of Blountville, Tenn. – held on a $151,000 bond for traveling to engage in prohibited sexual activity with a minor and obstructing an officer.

Law‑Enforcement Message

Deputies emphasized that protecting children does not stop at county borders. “Our commitment to identify and apprehend those who seek to exploit children extends beyond any jurisdiction,” the release stated. The ongoing investigation may lead to additional arrests as authorities continue to follow leads uncovered during the sting.

Community Impact

Operation Black Lantern underscores the dedication of local sheriffs and child‑protection specialists to safeguard the most vulnerable members of our community. By working together across county lines, these agencies demonstrate that the fight against child exploitation is a shared responsibility, rooted in the values of family, faith, and liberty that define West Virginia neighborhoods.

Next Steps

The four men remain in custody pending further court proceedings. Law‑enforcement officials encourage anyone with information about similar activities to contact the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office or the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office. The continued partnership aims to deter future predators and reinforce a safe environment for all children in the region.

Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.