Fairfax County law enforcement, working with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced the results of an undercover operation targeting online child exploitation. Nine men were arrested after investigators identified individuals using internet platforms to initiate sexually explicit conversations with minors.
Arrests and charges
All nine suspects faced charges ranging from solicitation of a minor to attempted indecent liberties. Seven of the men were released on bond while awaiting further court proceedings. Among those released were three individuals identified as illegal immigrants.
Reyben Sanchez Hernandez, 21, was charged with solicitation of a minor, procuring a minor for prostitution, and driving on a suspended license. He posted a $3,000 bond. DHS placed a detainer on him after confirming he entered the United States illegally in September 2013 and was previously apprehended by Border Patrol near the Rio Grande Valley.
Wilmer Aguilar Cruz, 28, faced charges of solicitation of a minor and attempted indecent liberties with a minor. He also posted a $3,000 bond. DHS issued a detainer for Aguilar Cruz, noting prior arrests in Prince William County (2019) and a 2012 apprehension by Border Patrol near Hidalgo, Texas.
Henry Flores Herrera, 39, was charged with solicitation of a minor for prostitution and released on a $5,000 bond. A DHS detainer was filed for him as well, with his record showing prior traffic offenses.
DHS statement on immigration enforcement
The agency emphasized the importance of “lodging arrest detainers” to remove criminal illegal aliens from communities. DHS officials warned that sanctuary jurisdictions that refuse to cooperate with ICE allow such individuals to re‑enter American neighborhoods, potentially leading to further crimes.
A DHS spokesperson urged Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger to cooperate fully with ICE and turn over illegal immigrants for removal.
Community impact
The operation underscores the ongoing challenge of protecting children from online predators while also addressing illegal immigration. Fairfax County officials highlighted the collaboration between local police and federal partners as a model for future investigations.
Parents in the county expressed relief that law enforcement is taking decisive action against those who exploit minors, while also calling for continued vigilance and support for victims.
Next steps
The nine men will appear in Fairfax County Circuit Court for arraignment. Prosecutors indicated that the cases will proceed with the full weight of the law, and DHS plans to pursue removal proceedings for the three illegal immigrants with pending detainers.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
