VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – A two-day law enforcement operation targeting human trafficking and related crimes resulted in four arrests and the identification of multiple potential victims, according to the Virginia Beach Police Department.
The operation was carried out January 30 and 31 by the department’s Special Investigations Bureau, with assistance from the Naval Criminal Investigation Service, Virginia State Police, and the Hampton Roads Human Trafficking Task Force. Police said the effort focused on identifying victims, reducing the demand for prostitution, and pursuing individuals involved in trafficking activities.
Investigators said several victims were located during the operation and offered support services. Detectives also developed additional investigative leads that remain under active review.
Four people were arrested during the operation. Steven C. Gray, 43, of Virginia Beach, was charged with multiple felony offenses including possession with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, pandering, aiding prostitution, using a vehicle to promote prostitution, and possession of a firearm while distributing controlled substances, along with two misdemeanor charges.
Marvin L. Boomer, 67, of Portsmouth, was charged with three felony counts, including use of communication devices to commit crimes against children, recruiting a minor for prostitution, and soliciting prostitution from a minor. Autumn D. Reffett, 27, of North Carolina, and Jessica F. Martino, 32, of Williamsburg, were each charged with prostitution.
During the operation, officers seized multiple items including four cellphones, $572 in cash, more than 43 grams of cocaine and crack combined, a Beretta .40-caliber handgun, ammunition, narcotics paraphernalia, items used in the manufacture of crack cocaine, and one vehicle.
- Four arrests made during two-day operation
- Multiple potential trafficking victims identified and offered services
- Drugs, firearm, cash, and a vehicle seized
Police said the Special Investigations Bureau works as part of the Hampton Roads Human Trafficking Task Force and the regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which focus on victim services, investigations, prosecutions, and public awareness related to human trafficking across the region.
