The Clarke County Sheriff’s Office announced on its Facebook page that four individuals have been taken into custody as part of a coordinated operation targeting the sexual exploitation of minors. The operation was conducted in partnership with Covenant Rescue Group and received assistance from the Jackson Police Department, Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Citronelle Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Arrests and charges
According to the sheriff’s announcement, the four suspects were arrested after allegedly arranging to pay for sexual services from a person they believed to be under 16 years old. The individuals named in the release are:
- Kevin Funes, 21, of Mobile, Alabama
- Aaron Casey Peel, 26, of Porterville, Mississippi
- James Wesley Havelin, 42, of Malcolm, Alabama
- Richard Eugene Smith, 54, of Mobile, Alabama
All four have been charged with First‑Degree Human Trafficking, Electronic Solicitation of a Child, and Traveling to Meet a Child for an Unlawful Sex Act. In addition, Aaron Casey Peel faces a charge of Resisting Arrest.
Additional offenses
The sheriff’s office also reported that three other individuals are alleged to have committed the offense of Transmitting Obscene Material to a Minor during the same operation. Law‑enforcement officials indicated that further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
Ongoing investigation
Investigators emphasized that the cases remain active and that additional charges may be filed as more evidence is gathered. The department reiterated that the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Community impact
This operation underscores the commitment of Clarke County law‑enforcement agencies, in cooperation with state and federal partners, to protect vulnerable children and to combat the illegal trade of sexual services involving minors. The sheriff’s office encouraged community members to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity that may involve the exploitation of children.
Contact information
For further details or to provide tips related to human‑trafficking investigations, residents are advised to contact the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office directly.
Original reporting: FOX10 WALA Mobile (news) — read the source article.
