The Freer Police Department, in partnership with Veterans for Child Rescue (V4CR), conducted a coordinated undercover operation that targeted individuals allegedly attempting to exploit minors online.
Three men have already been arrested, according to police, and more than 18 arrest warrants are pending as evidence is processed.
Abelom Birhane Asgedom, 43, of Dallas, has been charged with a third-degree felony for online solicitation of a minor. He allegedly traveled to Freer to meet a 14-year-old girl.
Gerardo Perez, 37, of Corpus Christi is charged with online solicitation of a minor after reportedly coming to Freer to meet someone he thought was a 16-year-old girl.
Robert Canarumo Guaiquirima, a 32-year-old Venezuelan living in Arlington, allegedly visited Freer to meet a 14-year-old female. Police said he has an immigration detainer and would be transported to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement for processing and potential deportation.
Freer police anticipate further arrests as the investigation progresses.
Officials advise parents to monitor their children’s phones, social media, gaming systems, and messaging applications, as predators frequently use unfiltered chat facilities to contact children.