Washoe County Operation Leads to Nine Arrests and Two Victims Rescued in Human Exploitation and Sex Trafficking Investigation

RENO, NV — A two-day law enforcement operation in Washoe County ended with nine arrests and the recovery of two victims, according to investigators. Officials said the effort focused on people accused of seeking illegal commercial sex activity, including crimes tied to children.

The sweep was carried out by the Regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit, known as HEAT, along with several local and state law enforcement partners. Investigators said the case remains active.

How the operation worked

Authorities said the operation brought together detectives and analysts from the HEAT Unit, the Regional Gang Unit, the Reno Police Department Mobile Engagement Team, the Real Time Intelligence Center, the RAPTOR Unit, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office HAWK Unit and the Nevada Threat Analysis Center.

Investigators said the goal was to identify adults accused of trying to buy sex from children, as well as people suspected of exploiting children and adults for sex trafficking or prostitution-related crimes.

Arrests at meeting site

Officials said nine people were taken into custody after arriving at a designated meeting location during the operation. The alleged offenses ranged from soliciting prostitution to more serious accusations involving attempts to lure a child, statutory sexual seduction and child abuse for sexual exploitation.

Among those named by investigators were Jeffrey Brown, 62; Steven Davis, 42; Luis Sanchez Herrera, 31; Rodolfo Garcia Segura, 27; Armando Lara Marquez, 21; Axel Lopez, 33; Orion Hartmann, 22; Mohammad Karami, 27; and Gabriel Serpaio, 24.

Victims received support

During the operation, investigators said they recovered two victims of human exploitation and trafficking. Officials said both were given resources and connected with support services after being identified.

The HEAT Unit said victim advocates work with detectives to provide crisis intervention, help and other resources to people affected by trafficking and exploitation cases.

How to submit tips

Investigators said people with information about these cases, sex trafficking or prostitution-related activity can contact the HEAT Unit by email at RPDHEAT@renogov or HEAT-Tips@washoecounty.gov. Anonymous tips can also be sent through Secret Witness by text at (775) 322-4900 or online at secretwitness.com.

Officials said the regional task force includes detectives from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Reno police, Sparks police and Washoe County School Police.

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