Seven arrested in Hays County operation targeting sexual exploitation of minors

On April 1-2, an operation was conducted which targeted persons trying to sexually exploit and victimize minors for a fee. Officers posed as females under the age of 18 and began to communicate with suspects through various websites known to be used to solicit sexual acts.

The agencies involved were the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division, Texas Highway Patrol Division, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, the San Marcos Police Department, and the Hays County District Attorney’s Office.

On April 1, the following subjects arranged to meet a person whom they believed was a 15 year old female and were arrested for Prostitution/Solicit Person under the age of 18, 2nd degree felony:

• Andres Ivan Carrion Guevera, 38, of Minnesota

• Todd Matthew Strine, 46, of New Braunfels

• Abel Barcenas Suarez, 33, of New Braunfels

On April 2, the following subjects made arrangements to meet a person whom they believed was a 15 year of age female and were arrested for Prostitution/Solicit Person under the age of 18, 2nd degree felony:

• Fabian Jefferson, 50, of Kyle

• Ricardo Costilla Jr, 24, of Austin

• Richard Guerrero Morales, 52, of San Marcos

• Jacob Hiley Pell, 18, of Cedar Park

This investigation highlights the partnership between local and state law enforcement agencies in working together to combat human trafficking. If you are a victim of human trafficking or have information about this type of criminal activity, please contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.