LOUISIANA (KLFY) — Multi-agency operation lead to the arrest of eight men, three from Lafayette, following an investigation involving crimes against children, according to Louisiana Bureau of Investigation.
An undercover online operation aimed at identifying, investigating, and apprehending individuals who allegedly use electronic communications or internet-based platforms to solicit, entice, or attempt to exploit persons they believe to be juveniles for sexual purposes was hosted by Louisiana Bureau of Investigation on June 17 to June 18, officials said.
All arrested and wanted individuals are facing charges Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor, officials reported.
The following men arrested and charged:
- Andrew Belk, 30, of Lafayette for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- Raul Xochihua, 29, of Lafayette for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- John Shepard, 39, of Lafayette for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- David Monroe, 38, of Denham Springs for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- Dewayne Ordone, 42, of Larose for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- Hobie Matherne, 32, of Larose for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- Kenneth Harris, 55, of West Monroe for the charges of Indecent Behavior and Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
- Xavier Copeland, 22, of Hammond for the charges of two counts of Indecent Behavior and two counts of Computer Aided Solicitation of a minor.
The following agencies participated in the undercover operation:
- Louisiana Bureau of Investigation
- Homeland Security Investigations
- Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Louisiana State Police
- Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office
- St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Youngsville Police Department
The following agencies assisted with the apprehension of suspects:…