The Limestone County Sheriff's Office recently released information on a child sex sting operation and the rescue of a juvenile from human trafficking.
The juvenile reported missing from out of state, was rescued on March 6. Deputies responded to a disturbance call and discovered the victim.
Investigators recognized signs of human trafficking. Deputy Dylan Legg rescued the victim and learned the child was lured into sex trafficking online.
"Parents, please stay vigilant about your children's online activities," warned Sheriff Joshua McLaughlin. "No one ever thinks it will happen to their child, but predators are out there, hiding behind screens, waiting for an opportunity. Monitor their games, phones, and any internet-connected devices."
The child was returned home, and charges are pending.
Just three days later, the sheriff's office conducted a targeted operation resulting in nine arrests for human trafficking and child exploitation.
Those charged with first-degree human trafficking, electronic solicitation of a child and traveling to meet a minor for an unlawful sex act are:
• Macario Mina, 30, of Huntsville
• Robin Morneault, 40, of Athens
• Stephen Carmac, 53, of Cameron, N.C.
• Quan Zeng, 33, of Gadsden
• Kevin Brooks, 34, of Huntsville
• Lavoris Mitchell, 36, of Huntsville
Those charged with two counts of first-degree human trafficking, two counts of electronic solicitation of a child and two counts of traveling to meet a minor for an unlawful sex act are:
• Darris Moore II, 24, of Harvest
• Donald Devaney, 52, of Russellville
• Raul Alvarez-Lopez, 28 of Huntsville
"These are exactly the types of predators we are targeting, those talking to kids on apps like Snapchat, where they think we can't save their disturbing messages," McLaughlin stated. "We can, and we do, and we plan to use their own words and actions to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law."
McLaughlin said some of those arrested have been living double lives and preying on children.
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