VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – A two-day undercover operation targeting human trafficking and online child predators led to the arrest of three men in Virginia Beach.
The operation, conducted November 21 through November 22, was carried out by the Virginia Beach Police Department’s Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) in partnership with the Naval Criminal Investigation Service (NCIS).
Detectives focused on identifying victims of human trafficking, reducing demand for prostitution, and locating online child exploitation suspects.
Seven individuals were encountered during the sting, with several facing criminal charges and others referred to victim support services.
Among those arrested were Alex Gonzalez-Cinto, 28, of Virginia Beach; Timothy Jameson, 25, of Virginia Beach; and Patrick Brigman, 39, of Norfolk — each charged with solicitation of prostitution.
Joint task forces expand anti-trafficking efforts
The Special Investigations Bureau operates as part of the Hampton Roads Human Trafficking Task Force (HRHTTF) and the regional Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Both initiatives coordinate federal, state, and local resources to combat human trafficking and child exploitation in the region.
The HRHTTF focuses on providing services to victims, prosecuting sex and labor trafficking offenders, and promoting community awareness about human trafficking prevention.
Supported by a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, the task force centralizes efforts to support survivors and hold traffickers accountable.
Online child exploitation remains a growing threat
The ICAC Task Force agencies conduct investigations and forensic analyses targeting online crimes against children, including child sexual abuse material. The program’s goal is to strengthen law enforcement’s response to technology-driven crimes and provide sustainable tools to identify and protect victims.
Virginia Beach Police said their ongoing collaboration with federal and regional partners is essential in uncovering trafficking networks and ensuring victims receive necessary support services.