PORTSMOUTH — In a collaborative sting operation, the Portsmouth Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations arrested three individuals on charges related to sex trafficking and solicitation of minors and adults.
The arrests, which occurred on July 19, were part of an undercover effort to crack down on individuals using online platforms to target children for sexual exploitation and adults for commercial sex acts.
Two of the individuals were apprehended after allegedly attempting to meet a minor for sexual activity in Portsmouth.
Duarte M. Arruda, 61, of Fall River, MA, faces charges including one count of patronizing a minor for commercial sexual activity and one count of indecent solicitation of a minor.
The joint operation underscores the ongoing commitment by local and federal agencies to combat sex trafficking and protect vulnerable populations from exploitation.
