In a coordinated effort, police departments from Virginia Beach, Hampton, and Williamsburg executed a successful operation resulting in the arrest of 13 individuals on prostitution-related charges. This extensive investigation began in November 2019 and concluded in January 2020, involving five undercover operations across various locations in Williamsburg.
The Operation
The joint operation was meticulously planned and executed, targeting illegal activities within the city rather than specific properties. Undercover officers conducted operations primarily along Richmond Road and York Street, known for such unlawful activities. This initiative aimed to address and reduce prostitution and associated crimes in the area.
Arrests and Charges
The individuals arrested during this operation face various charges, including soliciting prostitution and frequenting a bawdy place. The following is a list of those arrested and their respective charges:
- Herberth Marroquin-Lopez, 38, Williamsburg – Soliciting Prostitution
- Dwayne Futrell Jr., 32, Newport News – Soliciting Prostitution
- Christopher French, 38, Hayes – Soliciting Prostitution
- Jose Delgado, 31, Williamsburg – Frequenting a Bawdy Place
- Pedro Lopez-Lopez, 29, Manassas – Soliciting Prostitution
- Tyler Crandall, 35, Whitestone – Soliciting Prostitution
- Eduardo Garcia-Escobar, 34, Williamsburg – Soliciting Prostitution
- Shonte Hutchinson, 43, Hampton – Soliciting Prostitution, Possession of Marijuana
- Ruben Todd, 52, Williamsburg – Frequenting a Bawdy Place
- John Sayoun, 43, Williamsburg – Soliciting Prostitution
- Richard Reyes, 46, Williamsburg – Soliciting Prostitution
- Walter Gard, 52, Williamsburg – Soliciting Prostitution
- Penny Sampson, 38, Newport News – Prostitution
Community and Law Enforcement Cooperation
Williamsburg Police Chief Sean Dunn emphasized the success of the operation, attributing it to the invaluable assistance and support from the community and law enforcement partners. He noted that the operation highlights ongoing issues of human trafficking in the area and aligns with the National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.
Chief Dunn remarked, “This operation should serve as a testament that we will be vigilant in addressing this issue. When you pay a prostitute for sex, too often, the person you are paying is a victim and not an entrepreneur as some would have you believe.”
Addressing Human Trafficking
The operation’s success underscores the broader issue of human trafficking, with authorities urging anyone with information or those who may be victims to contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline or local police departments. This call to action aims to encourage community involvement in tackling this pervasive issue.
Conclusion
This joint operation between Virginia Beach, Hampton, and Williamsburg police departments is a significant step towards reducing prostitution and human trafficking in the region. It highlights the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts and community cooperation in addressing and mitigating unlawful activities that threaten the safety and well-being of the community.
