USA: 44yo Ohio Police Chief Faces 280 Years In Prison After Being Indicted For 70 Counts Of Sex Crimes With A Minor Who Was Part Of The Young Marines Program. Sex Abuse Lasted For 5 Years.

Law&Crime Network published June 15, 2026: Police Chief Slapped with 70 Charges in Shocking Sex Crimes Scandal. Chad Essert, 44, is the police chief of Bethel, Ohio. But years before that, Essert worked as an instructor for the Young Marines program. During that time, the Clermont County prosecutor says Essert groomed a girl who was taking part in the program and had sexual contact with her from 2005 to 2010. Now, Essert faces 70 felony charges related to the allegations. Law&Crime's Angenette Levy looks at the case in this episode of Crime Fix — a daily show covering the biggest stories in crime.

Law&Crime Network published June 23, 2026: Police Chief Claps Back At Sick Sex Charges. Chad Essert, 44, is back in Ohio to answer to 70 felony charges involving allegations that he had sexual contact with a girl in a Young Marines program. Deputies in Pinellas County, Florida, took Essert into custody on a warrant. Essert had been on leave from his job as police chief of the village of Bethel. Now he's entered a plea, and his attorney is denying the allegations. Law&Crime's Angenette Levy goes through video of Essert's arrest and talks with his attorney in this episode of Crime Fix — a daily show covering the biggest stories in crime.

LOCAL 12 published June 15, 2026: 'Supposed to protect and serve': Ohio community shocked by police chief's arrest. Bethel's Police Chief Chad Essert is facing 56 counts of sexual battery, 14 counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, and potentially 240 years in prison.

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Fox19 News, Cincinnati, OH local

Bethel police chief resigns as he faces 70 counts of sexual abuse charges

written by Digital Staff

Friday July 3, 2026

VILLAGE OF BETHEL, Ohio (WXIX) — Village of Bethel Police Chief Chad Essert has submitted his resignation amid the 70 counts of sexual abuse charges he faces, according to a letter signed by Mayor Jay Dee Noble II Friday.

The mayor of the village announced that he accepted the resignation, which will be effective July 9.

“Chief Essert’s resignation comes as the Village Solicitor’s office was investigating allegations first brought to the Village’s attention by the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office. Had Chief Essert not resigned, a hearing would have been held on July, 9, 2026 before Village Council to consider his removal from office.” Nobel said.

Charges and indictment

Essert was arrested June 11 and pleaded not guilty in Clermont County Common Pleas Court after a grand jury indicted him on charges involving an alleged minor victim, prosecutors said. He is charged with 56 counts of sexual battery and 14 counts of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor.

Prosecutors allege the conduct occurred at locations across Clermont and Hamilton counties between 2005 and 2010. During that time, Essert was an instructor for the Young Marines and a teacher at Scarlet Oaks in Sharonville, investigators said.

“The allegations describe a prolonged pattern of grooming and sexual exploitation by the defendant rather than a single lapse in judgment,” Prosecutor Laura Baron Allen said.

Judge Victor Haddad set Essert’s bond at $500,000 after prosecutors asked for $1 million and the defense argued for a lower amount.

“He just wants to post bond, get out and get home,” defense attorney Jay Clark said.

How the investigation began

The allegations surfaced during an unrelated investigation into Essert, authorities said. That earlier complaint alleged Essert drove his take-home police vehicle to Dayton for consensual sex with a woman he had pulled over for speeding in a school zone and did not ticket. Investigators said no crime occurred in that case and closed it.

Resignation ends removal proceedings

Noble had also filed charges with the village council seeking Essert’s removal, citing “dishonesty, immoral conduct, neglect of duty, and other acts of malfeasance,” Noble wrote in a memo posted to the village’s Facebook page.

Noble said Essert’s resignation ends the need for any further investigation or hearing. The village will report Essert’s departure to the appropriate Ohio agencies as a resignation while under investigation, as required by Ohio law.

Essert is no longer being paid. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to 280 years in prison.

Acting chief to remain in role

Acting Chief Donald Fourth will continue to lead the Bethel Police Department while a search for a new police chief is conducted, Noble said.

USA: 31yo Massachusetts Police Officer And 37yo Husband Took In 14yo Foster Child And Accused Of Raping Him For 8 Years. Both Charged With Child Rape. Trial Rescheduled For Today 7/23.

Law&Crime Network published Mar 27, 2026: Crying Cop, Husband Accused in Twisted Sex Crimes Case. A Massachusetts police officer and her husband faced a judge on shocking charges of child rape and sexual abuse allegedly involving their adopted son. Plymouth officer Samantha Pelrine and her husband, Daniel Forand, were arrested after their now-adult adopted son reported the abuse, which allegedly started when he was just 14 or 15. Law&Crime’s Jesse Weber takes you inside the courtroom, where their defense attorneys pushed back hard against the allegations.

NBC10 Boston published March 26, 2026: Plymouth police officer and her husband charged with rape of teen. A young man who was in the care of the couple as a teenager told authorities they sexually assaulted him for years.

CBS Boston published March 26, 2026: Plymouth police officer and husband accused of child rape released on bail. Plymouth police officer Samantha Pelrine and her husband were arrested Thursday and charged with multiple counts of child rape.

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The Patriot Ledger

When Plymouth cop, husband charged with child rape are back in court

written by Jessica Trufant

Monday June 8, 2026

Plymouth police officer Samantha Pelrine and her husband, Daniel Forand, were due back in court Monday, June 8, on child rape charges, but the hearing was rescheduled for July 23. <==

Pelrine, 31, faces three counts of aggravated child rape and one count of child rape, according to court records. Forand, 37, faces three counts of aggravated child rape and two counts of indecent assault and battery on a person 14 or over.

They are currently out on bail after being arraigned in Plymouth District Court in March. Pelrine is on leave from the police department.

The allegations stem from a person who sought a restraining order against the couple on March 17, describing in the complaint yearslong sexual and physical abuse.

What the prosecution and defense say about the abuse charges against Samantha Pelrine and Daniel Forand During the arraignment, Assistant District Attorney James Duffy said the incidents began when the boy alleging abuse was 14. About a year later, the sexual abuse began by Forand and later by Pelrine, the prosecution said. The abuse continued until 2025, Duffy said.

Joseph Krowski Jr., who is representing Pelrine, offered a series of events that called into question the complainant's fear for his safety. This included asking to continue to work for Forand's company and wanting to participate in Sunday dinners and vacations with the couple.

Forand's attorney Tamari Kovach painted the alleged victim as a "troubled young man (who) had not been following the house rules."

When Plymouth police officer Samantha Pelrine was placed on leave The Plymouth Police Department placed Pelrine on paid administrative leave March 17 after being informed by the Massachusetts State Police that she was the subject of a criminal investigation. Pelrine has been with the department since 2022.

That was the same day an abuse prevention order was issued against Pelrine and Forand, according to a copy of the order obtained by The Patriot Ledger.

Judge renewed protective order, impounded documents

The judge at the March arraignment also extended the restraining order against Pelrine and Forand.

The order notes that Pelrine and her husband must stay away from the complainant’s residence and at least 100 yards away from the complainant. The two were also ordered to surrender any guns, ammunition or gun licenses to police.

The judge also impounded all documents related to the case.

USA: 14yo Girl Reported Missing After School In Minnesota Was Kidnapped By A Local Couple, Used Her As A Sex Slave To Produce Child Pornography. She Escaped And Neighbor Called 911.

KARE 11 published June 3, 2026: 14-year-old girl found in a box, 2 adults arrested. Police say they found a missing 14-year-old girl hiding in a box in a bedroom of an Oakdale couple's home.

WCCO - CBS Minnesota published June 4, 2026: Minnesota couple charged with sex crimes after missing teen found in cardboard box. A Twin Cities couple faces chilling charges after police say they sexually assaulted a teenage girl who ran away from school.

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CBS News

Oakdale couple charged with sex crimes after missing girl found in cardboard box

written by WCCO Staff, Jason Rantala

Friday June 5, 2026

A Twin Cities couple faces sexual misconduct charges after police say a missing 14-year-old girl was found alive in a cardboard box inside their home.

According to court documents filed last week in Washington County, 46-year-old Angeline Olson and 48-year-old Andrew Olson, of Oakdale, are each charged with soliciting a child to engage in sexual conduct.

Additionally, Angeline Olson faces one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, while Andrew Olson faces three counts of possessing child sexual abuse material.

The criminal complaint states police in Maplewood first began investigating after the girl was reported missing from school on the morning of May 26. Police were told by the girl's father that she could have been at the Oakdale home of her friend, whose parents are the Olsons. When police arrived at the home a couple hours later, Angeline Olson allegedly told them the girl was not there.

Around 1:45 a.m. on May 27, police received reports of the girl standing outside the Olsons' home in a "black swim suit top" with a man and a woman "appearing to be cooking something," the complaint states.

"I came outside to smoke and I'm minding my own business and all of a sudden this little girl comes running past out her house, right in front of me half naked. Like nothing a 13-, 14-year-old girl should be wearing," said neighbor Teaira, who called police. "Next thing you know [Angeline is] out the bushes and [Angeline] comes out naked, like her whole top half is out, and I'm like, whoa, what's going on here? Why are you naked in front of a child?"

When officers arrived, they said the Olsons were "immediately argumentative." They gave police permission to search their home, but defied officers' orders to remain outside and were subsequently detained.

"Officers ultimately located [the girl] in a cardboard box in the Olsons' bedroom under a pile of clothes," the complaint states.

Search warrants were issued for the Olsons' home and electronic devices, leading to the alleged discovery of sexually explicit videos on Andrew Olson's phone involving the couple and the victim.

"You don't even know who you live next to anymore," Teaira said.

The Olsons are in custody. If convicted, Angeline Olson faces up to 30 years in prison, while Andrew Olson faces up to 18 years.

"They need to be locked up. I hope that they are locked up for a very very long time," said Teaira. "I hope that that little girl is OK."

USA: 2 Teachers Arrested For Sex Crimes Involving Students At A High School In Pittsburgh. The High School Principal Was Switched With Middle School Principal. AG To Investigate School District.

WPXI-TV News Pittsburgh published March 24, 2026: Instructor at local high school charged with institutional sexual assault. Criminal charges were filed against a local high school instructor accused of having inappropriate contact with a minor. Pennsylvania State Police said an investigation began Monday when troopers received a report about inappropriate contact between an adult and a minor.

CBS Pittsburgh published March 25, 2026: Outrage grows in Laurel Highlands School District after back-to-back teacher arrests. Parents of Laurel Highlands School District students voiced outrage toward the school board after a special meeting Tuesday night, upset that two teachers have been arrested less than a week apart, for alleged inappropriate relationships with students. KDKA-TV's Ross Guidotti has more.

CBS Pittsburgh published April 2, 2026: Fallout continues in Laurel Highlands School District after 2 teachers arrested. The Laurel Highlands School District board is bringing in outside counsel to review ongoing investigations after two teachers have been accused of having inappropriate relationships with students.

WTAE-TV Pittsburgh published March 27, 2026: Pennsylvania lawmaker wants attorney general to investigate Laurel Highlands School District. The request comes after two school employees were charged with alleged inappropriate conduct involving students.

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WPXI.com

Instructor at local high school charged with institutional sexual assault

written by Sierra Rehm

Tuesday March 24, 2026

Criminal charges were filed against a local high school instructor accused of having inappropriate contact with a minor.

Pennsylvania State Police said an investigation began Monday when troopers received a report about inappropriate contact between an adult and a minor.

During the investigation, troopers identified the accused adult as Daniel Cervone, a JROTC instructor at Laurel Highlands High School.

“We entrust these folks to help us raise our children, to put them through these programs like JROTC to teach them things like duty, integrity, and that trust that we placed in this particular teacher was violated. It’s unacceptable,” Fayette County District Attorney Mike Aubele said.

PSP said Cervone was taken into custody on Tuesday and charged with institutional sexual assault, corruption of minors and unlawful contact with a minor.

“I have seven kids, and I have six of them at Laurel Highlands, so this is a very important case, not just because I have kids there, because there are a lot of our community members that have children there,” Aubele said.

A criminal complaint states the victim told police she had a sexual relationship with Cervone during 2020. She claimed she spent “copious amounts of time” in his office on a “regular weekly basis” and had sex inside the high school once.

The complaint goes on to say that after Cervone was taken into custody, he “confessed to the allegations which were made against him,” including having sex with a student on school property.

“It’s disgust. I mean, we’re talking about our most vulnerable people, our children,” Aubele said. “I can’t think of anything that’s more repulsive than to take advantage of the trust that we place upon a teacher to violate that.”

Cervone’s arrest comes days after a different Laurel Highlands School District teacher was charged with attempted sexual assault, unlawful contact with minors and corruption of minors.

While police said the two are not connected, they said the first arrest helped the alleged victim to come forward against Cervone.

“I’m sure that was kind of the reason she came in, she saw this, she saw somebody else come forward and be a victim and she decided to do the same thing, and obviously if there’s anybody else out there that is a victim, we will take their complaint seriously,” said Sgt. Richard Sizer with Pennsylvania State Police.

Laurel Highlands School District Superintendent Dr. Jesse Wallace III issued a statement on Tuesday, saying the district was only made aware of the allegations against Cervone on Tuesday.

“The District takes the safety and welfare of our students as the highest priority,” Wallace’s statement continues in part. “We have and continue to take all steps necessary to fully train and inform our staff on appropriate staff/student boundaries and relationships. However, this does not lighten the sting of episodes currently under investigation.”

Wallace says the district is cooperating with investigators.

“I can’t stress enough to parents be involved in your child’s life. Make sure you look through their cell phones, their tablets, make sure they’re not sending inappropriate things back and forth, especially, hopefully never to instructors,” said Trooper Kalee Barnhart with Pennsylvania State Police.

The state police investigation is still active, and troopers encourage anyone with information to contact the Uniontown Barracks by calling 724-439-7111.

USA: 10 4th Grade Boys Alleged Sexual Abuse By A Classmate At Chaparral Elementary In Albuquerque, NM Who Don't Believe Them. Another Victim Says The School And Police Treated Her The Same.

KOAT news published June 30, 2026: Albuquerque family says daughter's abuse case mirrors recent Chaparral allegations.

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KOAT News, New Mexico local

Albuquerque family says daughter's abuse case mirrors recent Chaparral allegations

written/reported by Jason McNabb

Wednesday July 1, 2026

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — An Albuquerque family says their daughter's abuse case at Chaparral Elementary School in 2018 mirrors recent allegations involving other students at the same campus.

Khloe, who is preparing to start high school, but instead of being excited, she lives in fear.

"My biggest fear is probably, like, seeing him again," Khloe said.

Her parents, Erika and Alberto Lucero, said they first noticed changes in her behavior in 2018.

"We took Khloe swimming, and Khloe relayed to us that she was injured," Erika Lucero said. "And at that point, we just kind of asked her what happened. And that’s when she started talking more."

The family said Khloe told them and her doctor that a boy her age had been bullying her and following her into the bathroom.

Medical records reviewed by Target 7 show providers documented concerns about possible sexual abuse and referred Khloe for further evaluation. The family said a forensic exam was later performed.

After reporting the allegations, the Luceros said their experience with Albuquerque Public Schools and APS police quickly deteriorated.

"My daughter’s been treated like she’s the perpetrator in this situation, not the survivor," Erika Lucero said.

Khloe said the APS police investigator assigned to her case did not believe her.

"Every time I would tell him something, he would kind of just push it off and just act like nothing happened," Khloe said.

The family also alleges that evidence collected during the forensic exam was later lost.

"Countless phone calls, countless doors getting slammed in your face, countless sleepless nights," Erika Lucero said. "No one should ever, ever have to go through what Chloe went through."

To better understand how children disclose abuse, Target 7 spoke with Dr. Leslie Strickler, a child abuse pediatrician and professor of pediatrics at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine.

Strickler said most child abuse cases come to light because of what a child says, not because of physical evidence.

"What is most common is that they do not disclose initially, meaning that in most cases of sexual abuse or assault in children and adults, people do not speak out about what has happened to them immediately for a number of reasons," Strickler said.

She added that children fabricating allegations of sexual abuse is "actually very, very rare."

After years of seeking answers, the Luceros said they are now focused on helping Khloe heal. They decided to come forward after seeing KOAT's recent reporting on another case at Chaparral Elementary.

In that case, 10 fourth-grade boys alleged abuse by a classmate. A report stated the boys may have been "consciously or unconsciously colluding" against the alleged classmate. The claims were not substantiated in the report, and an appeal has been filed.

That language struck a nerve with the Lucero family, who said they believe their daughter's case was also mishandled.

"I was upset because I feel like if they did what they were supposed to do, it might have not happened," Khloe said. "And I really hope these kids get the justice they need because nobody deserves to go through what I did."

Target 7 asked APS about Khloe's case and if they could provide an in-person interview or comment. They have not responded at the time of this reporting.

“The reason why she wanted to speak out is because this doesn’t deserve to happen to anybody else,” Alberto Lucero said.

If you or your family reported possible abuse or misconduct at an Albuquerque school, or have information relevant to this reporting, contact the Target 7 tipline at (505) 884 6347, or email at target7tips@koat.com

HAPPY Thursday Everybody! :)

LOL! ;D

The Courage of a Flower Compared to the HUMAN SPIRIT...❤ I Have To Share This Lovely Awe-Inspiring Osho Zen Tarot Card Description With You!

“Cause and effect, means and ends, seed and fruit cannot be severed; for the effect already blooms in the cause, the end preexists in the means, the fruit in the seed”

~by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Courage

[source: Osho International]

The seed cannot know what is going to happen, the seed has never known the flower. And the seed cannot even believe that he has the potentiality to become a beautiful flower. Long is the journey, and it is always safer not to go on that journey because unknown is the path, nothing is guaranteed.

Nothing can be guaranteed. Thousand and one are the hazards of the journey, many are the pitfalls - and the seed is secure, hidden inside a hard core. But the seed tries, it makes an effort; it drops the hard shell which is its security, it starts moving. Immediately the fight starts: the struggle with the soil, with the stones, with the rocks. And the seed was very hard and the sprout will be very, very soft and dangers will be many.

There was no danger for the seed, the seed could have survived for millennia, but for the sprout many are the dangers. But the sprout starts towards the unknown, towards the sun, towards the source of light, not knowing where, not knowing why. Great is the cross to be carried, but a dream possesses the seed and the seed moves.

The same is the path for man. It is arduous. Much courage will be needed.

This card shows a small wildflower that has met the challenge of the rocks and stones in its path to emerge into the light of day. Surrounded by an aura of bright golden light, it exposes the majesty of its tiny self. Unashamed, it is equal to the brightest sun.

When we are faced with a very difficult situation we have a choice: we can either be resentful, and try to find somebody or something to blame for the hardships, or we can face the challenge and grow.

The flower shows us the way, as its passion for life leads it out of the darkness and into the light. There is no point fighting against the challenges of life, or trying to avoid or deny them. They are there, and if the seed is to become the flower we must go through them. Be courageous enough to grow into the flower you are meant to be.

USA: 42yo Ex-Husband Stabbed His Ex-Wife And 2 Daughters To Death And Then Killed Himself In Florida. They Had Joint Custody Of Children. He Remained Obsessed And Abusive After Divorce.

UNIVISION MIAMI published June 6, 2026: "Things kept getting worse": Ex-wife of man suspected of killing his daughters. N+ Univision 23 Miami spoke with the ex-wife of Ryan Whiten, the man identified by authorities as the one who murdered his wife and daughters, and then took his own life, in a home in Doral Isles.

NBC 6 South Florida published June 4, 2026: A father killed his two daughters and the children’s mother, a prominent South Florida real estate professional, before killing himself inside a Doral home this week, authorities confirmed.

WPLG Local 10 published June 4, 2026: Community hurting after deputies say man killed ex-wife, 2 daughters before taking his own life.

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NBC6 News, Miami, FL local

Father killed daughters and prominent realtor before killing himself, officials say

written by NBC6 and Lorena Inclán

Thursday June 4, 2026

A father killed his two daughters and the children's mother, a prominent South Florida real estate professional, before killing himself inside a Doral home this week, authorities confirmed Thursday.

Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office officials said 42-year-old Ryan Charles Whiten, his daughters, 11-year-old Savannah Whiten and 8-year-old Sienna Whiten, and their mother, 46-year-old Melanie Hyer, were found dead in the Doral Isles neighborhood in the area of Northwest 111th Court and Northwest 72nd Terrace during a welfare check Tuesday night.

"The investigation revealed that Mr. Whiten committed these heinous acts and then took his own life," sheriff's officials said in a statement Thursday.

They had all suffered stab wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene in what the sheriff's office believes was a murder-suicide.

Hyer and Whiten separated years ago and were co-parenting their daughters, sources close to the case told NBC6.

Court records show that Hyer was married to another man until March of this year. Whiten also remarried, but that marriage also ended. His last known address was an apartment also in the Doral Isles neighborhood.

Hyer was a probate real estate professional who had been frequently interviewed by NBC6 to share her knowledge and insights about the real estate industry.

Friends described her as an amazing professional and human being who brought happiness with her beautiful smile.

Videos shared Thursday with NBC6 by Ryan Whiten’s ex-wife show Savannah and Sienna during happier times.

Hilda Zerpa told NBC6 that the girls were Ryan Whiten's whole world.

The girls attended Downtown Doral Elementary and were also members of the Doral Field Hockey team, which remembered them in an Instagram post on Wednesday.

"Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by them," the post read. "They were an important part of our community and will be remembered for their kindness, friendship, and the positive impact they had on everyone around them."

Authorities haven't said how long the bodies were inside the home or given a possible motive, but said the incident remains under investigation.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.

USA: 52yo Ex-Husband Hunted Down 6 Family Members At 3 Locations. He Shot And Killed His Ex-Wife, 4 Sons, And 1 Daughter. He Then Took His Own Life. They Divorced 3 Years Ago.

Seven people are dead, including the suspected gunman, after a shooting spree at multiple locations across Iowa on Monday in what authorities say appears to have stemmed from a domestic dispute. KFDM YouTube published June 2, 2026: Iowa shooting spree leaves seven deceased after suspect targeted family members.

KWQC News published June 2, 2026: Who was Ryan McFarland, the man accused of killing 6 family members in Muscatine?

KWQC News published June 4, 2026: Remembering the 6 victims killed in the Muscatine shooting. Six people were killed Monday during a shooting in Muscatine before the gunman fatally shot himself.

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WANE NBC15 News, local

UPDATE: Victims identified at vigil for 7 dead in Muscatine murder-suicide

written by Linda Cook, Bryan Bobb

Thursday June 4, 2026

UPDATE: The names of the seven victims killed Monday in Muscatine shootings were released Tuesday evening at a vigil. They are:

• Ryan McFarland, 52, the suspected shooter.
• Lesa McFarland, 51 (ex-wife)
• Dakota Whitlow, 32 (son)
• Austin Harris, 29 (son)
• Ryle McFarland, 20 (daughter)
• Mark McFarland, 16 (son)
• Ryan McFarland, 13 (son)

Johnathan McFarland, the surviving son of Lesa and Ryan McFarland, spoke for a few minutes at the vigil. He was soft-spoken and took his time when he referred the tragedy that took the lives of his family.

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The National Desk

7 dead in Iowa shooting spree after suspect targeted family members, police say

written by Alexx Altman-Devilbiss

Tuesday June 2, 2026

MUSCATINE, Iowa (TNND) — Seven people are dead, including the suspected gunman, after a shooting spree at multiple locations across Iowa on Monday in what authorities say appears to have stemmed from a domestic dispute.

The Muscatine Police Department said the shootings occurred at two homes and a business. Preliminary findings indicate the violence was the result of a domestic-related dispute.

Four victims were found after officers responded to a report of a shooting at the first home around 12:12 p.m., authorities said. As the investigation unfolded, detectives discovered two additional victims at other locations.

"All victims are believed to be family members of the deceased suspect," police said.

The suspect, identified as 52-year-old Ryan Willis McFarland, was later found near a pedestrian bridge with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Muscatine Police Chief Anthony Kies said during a news briefing that McFarland took his own life while officers were speaking with him.

"Officers and EMS personnel rendered aid. However, he was pronounced deceased at the scene," Kies said.

Muscatine Community Schools said on social media that two employees and two students were among those killed.

"Our hearts are broken for the family members, friends, colleagues, classmates, and all those affected by this unimaginable loss," Superintendent Clint Christopher said. "We ask that you keep everyone impacted in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time."

Kies added that McFarland had a criminal record but did not provide additional details.

USA: 16yo Daughter And 28yo Boyfriend Shot Her Dad, Mom And Grandma To Death in North Carolina. Family Had Been Missing For 2 Weeks After They Wanted To Take Out A Restraining Order On Him.

WLOS News 13 published May 8, 2026: 3 family members shot to death in North Carolina; teen daughter and adult man charged. Three people were found dead Thursday evening after deputies responded to a welfare check at a home in Fairview. Two suspects – including the 16-year-old daughter of two of the deceased victims – have been charged with murder, authorities said.

WLOS News 13 published May 13, 2026: Family, friends react to North Carolina triple homicide investigation. As investigators work to piece together what happened in a Fairview home where three family members were killed, a relative of the victims is sharing what she says she knows about the situation.

WLOS News 13 published June 26, 2026: 911 call before 3 bodies found in WNC home. Buncombe County has released a 911 call from a family member, alerting that multiple people living in a Fairview home were unaccounted for. "The sheriff’s office did make a drive-by to see if anyone was at home, but no one came to the door and there were two cars parked outside, but all of their phones are off and you can’t get ahold of anyone," the family member who called 911 said. The 911 caller said three of their family members had been missing for two weeks.

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ABC11 News,

Teen, man charged with killing 3 family members in Buncombe County, deputies say

written by Staff

Sunday May 10, 2026

FAIRVIEW, N.C. (WTVD) -- A teenager is facing first-degree murder charges after three members of her family were found dead inside a Western North Carolina home, according to authorities.

On Thursday, the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office was called to a home on Ashworth Drive in Fairview for a welfare check after relatives reported they had not heard from the family. Deputies entered the home and found 41-year-old Travis Eugene Grant, 42-year-old Kimberly Michelle Grant, and 66-year-old Sharon Harwood Grant shot to death.

ABC affiliate WLOS reported that authorities said the victims were the parents and grandmother of a 16-year-old girl who lived at the home. Investigators later determined the teen -- identified as Star Grant -- was missing.

Officials said deputies had conducted earlier welfare checks at the home in the days leading up to the discovery but did not have grounds to enter until Thursday.

Authorities said Star Grant may have been in the Gatlinburg, Tennessee, area with Devan Loving, 28.

With assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Gatlinburg Police Department, investigators tracked the pair to a Gatlinburg hotel, where they were taken into custody Friday morning.

Star Grant and Loving are each charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony conspiracy to commit murder. Grant will be charged as an adult, the sheriff's office confirmed.

Authorities have not released a possible motive in the case.

They will face an extradition hearing in Tennessee before being returned to Buncombe County.

In a statement, Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller said: "We would like to express our condolences to the family of these victims. We would also like to share our gratitude for our team of Patrol Deputies, Detectives, Crime Scene Investigators, and those leading these teams. Most of them have not slept because they have focused on nothing but arriving at this outcome that will hopefully bring closure to those impacted by this tragedy."

THAILAND: Aussie Ex-Pat Lived In Thailand For 8 Months. He Took A 17yo Girl To His Apartment For Paid Sex. Her Dead Body Was Found Packed Inside A Suitcase Next To Train Track.

10 News published June 29, 2026: Aussie Faces Death Penalty Over Alleged Murder Of Teen Found In Suitcase. An Australian man has been charged over the alleged murder of a 17-year-old girl in Pattaya, Thailand. Police say the victim’s body was found in a suitcase before the man was arrested attempting to fly back to Perth. If convicted, he could face the death penalty under Thai law.

news.com.au published June 30, 2026: Loan shark exposes 'hell' facing accused killer in Thai suitcase murder. Inside ‘hellhole’ where accused killer is being held. Police allege that Mr Carman strangled Tunchanok Donhomla following a dispute over payment for her company. He is now being held in Pattaya’s notorious soi 9 holding cells, which has been described as a hell hole. Former Gold Coast loan shark Tim Ward, who has spent time in the cells himself, says Mr Carman is facing “hell” in the prison.

Daily Mail Australia published July 8, 2026: My night with the Australian accused of killing Thai teen. A Thai mother-of-two has relived her awkward night of sex and fight over cash with the Australian accused of murdering a 17-year-old girl and hiding her body in a suitcase. Simon Carman, 45, invited Tang Chai, 43, back to his Pattaya condo in April, just weeks before police allege he killed teenager Tunchanok Donhomla and left the suitcase containing her body next to railway tracks ten minutes' drive away. Carman was arrested while allegedly trying to flee the country at Bangkok's main international airport as he attempted to board a Jetstar flight to Perth.

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The Guardian, UK

Australian man arrested in Thailand after 17-year-old’s body found in suitcase

written by Natasha May in Bangkok and Ben Doherty with Agence France-Presse

Saturday June 27, 2026

An Australian man has been arrested at a Thai airport in connection with the alleged murder of a 17-year-old girl whose naked body was found in a suitcase, according to local police.

The man, 45, was stopped at about 9.30pm on Friday while preparing to travel on a Jetstar flight to Perth, according to local media.

Images show Thai immigration officers at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport taking the man into custody.

Police arrested the man after they investigated his alleged connection to the Thai teenager, whose body was found in a suitcase behind the Floating Market in Pattaya, on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast, according to a statement released on social media by Pattaya city police.

The suspect, who denies involvement in the teenager’s alleged abduction and murder, was taken into custody after an interrogation, a police official in the resort city of Pattaya told Agence France-Presse.

Investigators were awaiting the results of a postmortem examination and “other evidence” in the case before filing charges, the official said.

The charges could include child abduction, murder, hiding a corpse and “abduction of a minor for sexual purposes”, added the official, who was speaking on condition of anonymity.

Police allege CCTV footage showed the suspect entering an apartment in the seaside resort of Pattaya in the early hours of Thursday along with the 17-year-old Thai girl, according to reports.

He emerged from the building several hours later, the reports said, carrying a large black suitcase which he then transported on the back of a motorbike.

Police found the suitcase on Friday near a railway track, discovering the victim’s body inside it bearing signs of violence, local website the Pattaya News reported.

In the statement released on social media, police also confirmed that an Australian national was detained at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport while allegedly attempting to flee the country in connection with the case.

Pattaya 24 News shared CCTV footage of the girl holding hands with a man of caucasian appearance while waiting for an elevator shortly after 3.30am on Thursday. They also shared CCTV footage of the man taking a suitcase out of the building.

Pattaya city police station requested a watch notice to immigration officers at the airport to prevent the man leaving Thailand as they investigated his alleged connection to the teenager, the Nation Thailand reported.

Police questioned the suspect, who then gave information about where the suitcase had allegedly been discarded.

“After receiving the information, Immigration officers coordinated with investigators from Pattaya City Police Station, who rushed to inspect the location. Officers later found the body of [the teenage girl] based on the information provided during questioning,” the local outlet stated.

Police arrested the man on charges related to murder and concealment of a body, according to the Nation.

A spokesperson for the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed the department “is providing consular assistance to an Australian detained in Thailand”.

“Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment.”

USA: 18-Month Old Was Rushed To Hospital After Being Rescued From Drowning In Backyard Pool. Doctor Declared Him Dead. Later Found Alive In The Morgue 5 Hours Later. 😱

Arizona’s Family (3TV / CBS 5) published July 9, 2026: Who's liable in mistaken toddler death case? Attorney weighs in. A doctor pronounced an Arizona boy dead by drowning, with body camera footage capturing the time of death recorded as 6:20 p.m. Hours later, at 11:52 p.m., a medical examiner transporter arrived at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center to retrieve the body and found the child alive — breathing and with a pulse. According to Gilbert Police, the child’s parents, responding officers and at least one nurse at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center alerted Dr. Aryan Toosi to signs of life before the child was moved to the morgue. Body camera audio captured the doctor’s response to those concerns.

ABC15 Arizona published July 1, 2026: Toddler found alive in hospital morgue after being pronounced dead by AZ doctor. An Arizona toddler was found breathing inside a Gilbert hospital morgue after being declared dead hours earlier by an Arizona doctor, according to police records. A police report and body camera video reviewed by the ABC15 Investigators show that two Gilbert police officers saw signs of life multiple times, but the toddler was still taken to the hospital’s “cold room,” which is also considered to be the morgue. One officer wrote in the police report that the baby was pronounced dead “in error” by the Mercy Gilbert doctor even after a tense exchange about a pulse possibly being detected. 

12 News July 2, 2026: New video sheds light on Arizona toddler declared dead, later found alive in morgue. The toddler is expected to survive, according to Gilbert police.

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12 News, Arizona local

An Arizona toddler was declared dead and later found alive in the morgue. New video gives insight into what happened.

written by Gabriella Bachara (KPNX)

Friday July 3, 2026

GILBERT, Ariz. — An Arizona toddler was declared deceased for five hours before being found alive in a hospital morgue, according to police in Gilbert, Ariz.

Police records newly obtained by KPNX reveal a clearer timeline of what happened.

According to the police report, the toddler was found face down in a backyard pool around 5:30 p.m. Feb. 8, which happened to be the day of the Super Bowl.

Officers accompanied the child to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, where doctors and nurses took over lifesaving efforts.

The doctor declared the child dead at approximately 6:20 p.m.

“If there’s no objections, I’d like to call time of death," the doctor could be heard saying on a police officer's body-worn camera video. “Time of death 18:20. Moment of silence.”

Several people, including the child's parents and police officers, expressed concerns that the child was still breathing after he was declared dead.

One officer said it sounded like the child was gasping for air. A nurse said it was agonal breathing, or not true breathing.

The child was transported to the hospital morgue about an hour later, where signs of life were still apparent, according to the police report.

A transporter with the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office later found the child to be breathing, and he was transported to another hospital.

A spokesperson with Mercy Gilbert Medical Center shared the following statement:

"This is a heartbreaking situation. We immediately conducted a thorough review of all aspects of the care that was provided to learn what happened and to make meaningful changes to strengthen our care. Out of respect for the patient's privacy, we cannot discuss details. We continue to work with the family and their representative. Patient safety and exceptional care is our highest priority."

According to police records, the child is expected to survive.

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ABC15 News, Arizona local

Records: Toddler found alive in hospital morgue after being pronounced dead by Arizona doctor

written by Nicole Grigg and Ashley Holden

Wednesday July 1, 2026

GILBERT, AZ — An Arizona toddler was found breathing inside a Gilbert hospital morgue after being declared dead hours earlier by an Arizona doctor, according to police records.

A police report and body camera video reviewed by the ABC15 Investigators show that two Gilbert police officers saw signs of life multiple times, but the toddler was still taken to the hospital’s “cold room,” which is also considered to be the morgue.

One officer wrote in the police report that the baby was pronounced dead “in error” by the Mercy Gilbert doctor even after a tense exchange about a pulse possibly being detected.

The 18-month-old was rushed to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center after he was found inside the family’s pool on Super Bowl Sunday in February.

It has taken months for the Gilbert police to release public records related to the near-drowning.

The ABC15 Investigators reviewed a half dozen body camera videos, including videos from the initial drowning scene and videos inside the hospital. Most of the videos are heavily blurred, and most of the audio has been muted, but one critical moment was captured between the doctor and the officer.

According to the police report, the officer wrote that a nurse in another room said: “I have a pulse.”

The officer wrote that when he tried to alert the doctor who was with the family in another room, the doctor appeared to dismiss the concerns, “[The doctor] arrogantly told me he was the doctor, he has the medical degree, he went to medical school for a reason, and to let him do his thing.”

Records show that shortly after that exchange, the doctor went on to declare the baby dead.

Over the next hour, two Gilbert police officers continued to document signs of life in their police report.

One officer wrote, “The release of air was audible and visible,” later writing, “It also began to sound like [redacted] was gasping for air.”

The report goes on to say that when medical staff went to move the boy’s body to the morgue, the officer wrote that she “observed what appeared to be another audible gasp.”

That was not the last time she heard signs of life, either.

While inside the morgue, the officer said, “I again observed what appeared to be a gasp or air release, which was now almost an hour later.”

A nurse who was there said those sounds could be a response to efforts to save the toddler.

Some of the last audio recordings heard on the body camera videos were of an officer telling the family that they could say goodbye.

The report says, hours later, at 11:52 p.m., the Medical Examiner's transport showed up and found the toddler was breathing inside the hospital morgue. He was then flown to Phoenix Children's Hospital for treatment.

An MRI said that the baby had brain damage, and we are told he will need lifelong care.

An attorney representing the family declined to comment.

Mercy Gilbert said in a statement, “This is a heartbreaking situation. We immediately conducted a thorough review of all aspects of the care provided to learn what happened and to make meaningful changes to strengthen our care. Out of respect for the patient's privacy, we cannot discuss details. We continue to work with the family and their representative. Patient safety and exceptional care is our highest priority.”

About the doctor

The Gilbert police report lists the doctor as “Dr. A. Toosi” and records show he is a licensed physician in Arizona.

Records show that Dr. Aryan Toosi, DO is licensed through the Arizona Osteopathic Board.

The ABC15 Investigators reached out to Dignity Health to see if Dr. Toosi is still employed with the hospital but a spokesperson would not comment.

In an email, a spokesperson wrote, “We are unable to comment on specific personnel. Like many hospitals, we have both employed and independent physicians who are affiliated with our facilities.”

An attorney who represents Dr. Toosi said they decline to comment at this time, but said there is much more to this case and that there are important medical facts that have not been reported.

The Gilbert Police Department sent the case to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office to review whether the parents will face charges in connection with the drowning.

A spokesperson for MCAO said they received a submittal in early June and it is still under review.

USA: 18yo Female Went Missing Walking Home From School 27 Years Ago In PA. 2 Months Later Police Found A Body In The Basement Of A House 2 Blocks Away. Now Identified As That Missing Teen.

I added the screenshot above to the news I shared below.

It's awful how the police dismissed this family's concerns about their missing family member and just documented her in their police report as a runaway. When it appears she was kidnapped and had horrible things happen to her in the basement of this home 2 blocks away from her home. This neighborhood monster may have done this to other young girls in the neighborhood who were also reported missing. It appears that the Allegheny police department did not honor their oath to protect and serve their community at the time Genelle Bradford was kidnapped and murdered. I'm glad to hear Allegheny County officials are making an effort to identify victims of other cold cases that were also labeled as Jane Doe. I think in the end the identity of several serial killers operating in and around the area will be revealed. (emphasis mine)

WPXI-TV News Pittsburgh published June 9, 2026: Woman’s remains found in basement of Allegheny County home nearly 27 years ago identified. An 18-year-old female whose remains were discovered in the basement of a Wilkinsburg home nearly 27 years ago has been identified. Her brother talked only to Channel 11 about finally starting to get some closure.

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WPXI News, Pennsylvannia local

Woman’s remains found in basement of Allegheny County home nearly 27 years ago identified

written by Jess Shannon

Tuesday June 9, 2026

WILKINSBURG, Pa. — An 18-year-old female whose remains were discovered in the basement of a Wilkinsburg home nearly 27 years ago has been identified.

Known as Jane Doe since the discovery in 1999, the victim has been identified as Genelle Bradford.

Bradford was reported missing from the Wilkinsburg area on April 24, 1999. Her remains were found on June 28, 1999, by the new owner of the property after the home at 604 North Avenue had been abandoned for more than a year. Her death was ruled a homicide by ligature strangulation.

The collaboration with Othram, as part of a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, enabled the identification of Bradford by building a comprehensive DNA profile and identifying potential family members.

The Allegheny County Police Department’s Homicide Unit, Wilkinsburg Police and the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner have continuously worked to identify the decedent.

Othram was able to develop a detailed DNA profile, which led to the identification of potential family members. Investigators from the Medical Examiner’s Office then located a family member, and these efforts confirmed the identity of the young woman as Bradford.

Mandy Tinkey, director of Forensic Services at the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the partnership.

“We are thrilled that once again this partnership has allowed us to provide answers to a family that was left in the dark for so long,” Tinkey said. “While the focus now shifts toward finding justice for Genelle, we are hopeful we can continue to provide answers for those impacted by the remaining cold cases we have shared with Othram.”

Allegheny County Police Superintendent Christopher Kearns emphasized the department’s commitment to ongoing investigations.

“This technology is a testament to why we never stop investigating open cases,” Kearns said. “We are grateful for the efforts of everyone involved and now that Genelle has been formally identified, we will continue to follow every lead available to us in the hopes of getting answers for her family.”

To date, County Police have not been able to identify a suspect in Genelle’s death. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact the County Police Tip Line at one-833-ALL-TIPS. Callers can remain anonymous.

USA: Deathbed Confession 13yo Boy’s Body Was Dumped In The Pond Sometime In The 1980s Prompts Search For Boy’s Body In Crawford County, Northwest Arkansas.

NWAhomepage com published May 15, 2026: Deathbed confession leads to Crawford Co. investigation.

40/29 News published May 14, 2026: Deathbed confession prompts search for boy’s body in Crawford County.

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40/29 News, Arkansas local

Deathbed confession prompts search for boy’s remains near Chester

written by Brett Rains

Friday May 15, 2026

CRAWFORD COUNTY, Ark. — A deathbed confession has sparked a search in Crawford County, where dive teams and K-9 handlers are looking for human remains believed to be those of a 13-year-old boy.

Crawford County Sheriff Daniel Perry said crews are searching a pond on private property near Chester, not far from I-49. Perry told 40/29 News that the tip indicated the boy’s body was dumped in the pond sometime in the 1980s, before the interstate was built.

Investigators say they do not yet know who the child is and have not found missing-person reports from that time period that match the information.

“I’m pretty confident there is a body in the pond after the dogs alerted the way they did,” Perry said. “I’m pretty confident that there’s a body in that pond.”

Perry said the information came from a sister who reported what her brother told her while he was dying.

“A guy was on his deathbed and told his sister that he had killed this 13-year-old, and supposedly the two were out camping,” Perry said. “Some things happened, and he was hit in the head with the rock and pushed in the pond. Early 80s, late 80s, all the guy said was that it happened in the 80s.”

Missouri-based nonprofit 3R K-9 Search Foundation was called in to assist. Hugh Murray with the group said the search in Crawford County is one of many they’ve done this year, with most requests coming from Arkansas.

“This is our 27th search for 2026,” Murray said. “90% of our jobs are in Arkansas.”

Murray said trained dogs can help distinguish the scent of human remains from other odors, including animal remains.

“The dog’s nose is going to be an invaluable tool,” he said. “When a dog’s out on a search, they’re able to discriminate the human remains odor compared to anything else, even animal remains.”

Divers entered the pond after the dogs alerted to a specific area, but as of now, crews have not located any human remains. Perry said the conditions make the search difficult, especially if the body has been in the water for decades.

“If the body has been in there for 30 and 40 years, and it’s possibly covered with silt and mud, not a lot probably left of it,” Perry said. “So, that’s kind of been a challenge for the divers.”

Perry said investigators have been trying to track down any historical records that could provide more information.

“We’ve gone to the library and looked at newspaper articles. We’ve contacted the FBI. We’ve contacted several agencies, all the agencies around here,” Perry said. “Back then, we had handwritten reports. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children wasn’t a thing. The Morgan Nick Foundation obviously wasn’t a thing. All those resources we have now weren’t available then.”

The sheriff said the search will continue until crews are confident there are no human remains in the pond. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

USA: California Woman Lured By Fake Housekeeping Job In Florida, Held Captive And Forced To Be Sex Slave Worker In A Residential Neighborhood. Child Sex Slaves There Too.

CBS 12 News - WPEC published June 23, 2026: Woman lured by fake housekeeping job forced into sex work, deputies say. A California woman who answered a housekeeping ad says she was flown to Florida, stripped of her documents, and forced into a Lake Worth Beach brothel.

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CBS 12 News, Florida local

Florida 'housekeeping job' turns into sex trafficking nightmare; captors arrested

written by Grace Bellinghausen and Al Pefley

Tuesday June 23, 2026

LAKE WORTH BEACH, Florida — A California woman who answered a housekeeping ad says she was flown to Florida, stripped of her documents, and forced into a Lake Worth Beach brothel.

According to the probable cause affidavit, the woman, originally from San Bernardino, responded to an Indeed ad for a housekeeping position paying $35 an hour with guaranteed housing and transportation to Florida.

The victim told investigators with the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office that the suspects paid for her flight and arranged an Uber to take her to a home at 1115 S. M Street in Lake Worth Beach on February 17.

Once inside, she met three people:

• 33-year-old Diana Katherine Chaparro Contreras, who introduced herself as "Karen."
• 50-year-old Sandra Luz Peralta Aguilar
• An unidentified man known as "Negro" or "Moreno"

That's when her nightmare began. The victim told investigators the trio took her passport and U.S. work permit and informed her that her job wasn't cleaning houses; it was having sex with clients.

She told detectives that once she was there, she couldn't leave and would be forced to have sex with at least seven men in a single day. She also said that at least one suspect was present when the clients would come and go.

"Well, that is a little bit too close for comfort and kids are in the neighborhood," said Clorine Muhammad, a neighbor who lives near the alleged brothel on South M Street.

Muhammad told us it's unacceptable to have a brothel here in this neighborhood.

"You're living in a residential area. You got people with small kids," she explained.

Many of the clients were violent. The victim told investigators that many men wouldn't use protection and would abuse and choke her. When she begged for mercy, investigators were told her traffickers would threaten her with deportation.

The affidavit highlighted that the home's doors were secured from the outside with a chain and security gate, and the victim's bedroom windows were covered with plywood.

One early morning, she escaped by breaking through the plywood window coverings with a lamp and climbing out a window. And she wasn't alone; she told investigators there was another girl in the home, possibly as young as 15, who she believed was also a victim.

In a follow-up interview, she positively identified Chaparro from a lineup of photographs as the woman she knew as "Karen."

The Investigation

The shocking story gave way to an intense investigation with detectives surveilling the home on M Street for weeks and documenting a steady stream of men arriving and leaving a short time later empty-handed.

Using utility records and rental documents, investigators linked the home to Chaparro. Further surveillance and records later connected Peralta Aguilar to the operation, whom the victim only knew as "Sandra."

But at some point, either because the traffickers caught on or by coincidence, the operation relocated to a different home at 332 S. F Street in Lake Worth Beach.

Two men who were stopped by law enforcement after leaving the properties told investigators they had paid for sex inside the homes, according to the affidavit.

One man said the operation worked by paying an older woman $60 for a token or chip, which was then given to a prostitute in exchange for sex. Another man told detectives there were two women working inside the second location and that a male security guard collected the money.

Investigators also reviewed financial records and found that Chaparro had received or deposited approximately $116,373.70 since March 2025, including nearly $61,000 in cash deposits.

Both Chaparro and Peralta Aguilar were arrested on Friday and booked on counts of human trafficking, profiting from or arranging prostitution, and operating or allowing a location to be used for prostitution.

"If kids are involved, hell, they need to go to jail. They need to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," Muhammad said.

Prior Run-in

Previous reporting by CBS12 News indicates Chaparro has ties to two brothers from Guatemala who were arrested last year. Despite their arrests, investigators said the broader network continued operating while associates kept the business running.

In a 2022 Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office report, investigators documented a traffic stop during surveillance of the suspected brothel. Inside a white pickup truck, detectives found Chaparro riding with one of the alleged ringleaders.

Fast forward to this year, investigators say Chaparro had taken a more central role in the operation—until her arrest Friday.