9 Arrested in Bullhead City Sting Targeting Online Predators of Minors

Two-Day Sweep Disrupts Predatory Schemes (Image Credits: Unsplash)

Bullhead City, Arizona – A multi-agency operation over two days last week led to the arrests of nine adults accused of attempting to engage in sexual activities with minors they met online.[1][2]

Two-Day Sweep Disrupts Predatory Schemes

The Mohave County Sheriff’s Office spearheaded the effort on January 30 and 31. Authorities posed as minors online to identify adults seeking illicit encounters. Suspects arranged meetings with individuals they believed to be 15 years old and younger. The operation focused on the Bullhead City area and aimed to prevent crimes against children.[1]

Investigators apprehended the nine individuals during these planned meetups. Each suspect faced felony charges related to sexual offenses. The swift action ensured no actual minors encountered harm. Law enforcement emphasized the operation’s role in deterring future threats to community safety.

Suspects Faced Serious Charges

All nine arrestees received bookings at the Mohave County Adult Detention Facility in Kingman. They accumulated a total of 14 felony counts tied to child sexual exploitation. One individual also faced additional charges for identity theft and credit card theft.

The list of those arrested included:

• Lucas Daniel Robbinson, 45, of Bullhead City: Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation, Attempted Sexual Conduct with a Minor
• William Noble Hall, 51, of Bullhead City: Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
• Ryan Tanner Carpenter, 28, of Bullhead City: Child Sex Trafficking, Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
• Steven Joseph Monte, 67, of Mohave Valley: Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
• Jessi Anthony Rubi, 42, of Bullhead City: Child Sex Trafficking
• Brandon Torres, 22, of Bullhead City: Child Sex Trafficking, Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
• Carlos Calhoun, 49, of Bullhead City: Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation, Taking Identity of Another, Theft of Credit Card
• Jason Bryan Proctor, 48, of Bullhead City (previously registered sex offender): Child Sex Trafficking, Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation
• Austin Ray Rogers, 31, of Laughlin: Child Sex Trafficking, Luring a Minor for Sexual Exploitation

[1]

Wide Network of Agencies Collaborates

The operation drew participation from numerous law enforcement partners. Local agencies such as the Bullhead City Police Department and Lake Havasu City Police Department joined forces with others from across Arizona. Out-of-state support came from the Red Wing Police Department in Minnesota.

Additional contributors included the La Paz County Sheriff’s Office, Chandler Police Department, Mesa Police Department, Arizona Department of Public Safety, and Mohave County Attorney’s Office. Non-governmental organizations Darkhorse Benefits and the Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network provided vital assistance. This broad coalition highlighted a unified front against child exploitation.[2]

Call for Vigilance in Online Safety

Mohave County officials stressed the ongoing threat of online predators. Parents received encouragement to monitor children’s internet use closely. Resources exist to help families discuss digital dangers effectively.

One recommended guide appears at the U.S. Department of Justice site. Staying informed and proactive remains essential for protection. The Sheriff’s Office pledged continued innovation in combating these crimes.

These arrests serve as a stark reminder of hidden dangers in the digital world and the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement. Communities benefit when agencies work together to shield the vulnerable. What steps do you take to keep kids safe online? Tell us in the comments.