On August 20, 2025, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Human Exploitation and Recovery Operations (H.E.R.O.) Team conducted a targeted operation to combat human trafficking. The operation resulted in the arrest of a male subject, whose true identity has yet to be determined. The male subject in this case, currently identified as “John Doe”, believed to be in his late 20’s, knowingly contacted a social media account belonging to a juvenile. During communications, “Doe” explicitly attempted to lure the juvenile for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts.
“John Doe” has been charged with attempted statutory sexual seduction, luring a child with the use of a computer, attempted child abuse, attempted kidnapping, false statement to obstruct, and possession of forged instrument. Doe is currently in custody at the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Facility and detectives are working to confirm his true identity.
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents of the dangers of unmonitored social media access by children and encourages parents to contact law enforcement if they discover communications or on-line activity which they find threatening or suspicious.
If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please reach out for help. Contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office H.E.R.O. Team at Hero-Tips@washoecounty.gov, or the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Together, we can work to end exploitation and provide hope to those in need.
