Oklahoma Sting Operation Leads to Arrests, Including a Local Pastor
glenpool, Oklahoma – A coordinated law enforcement operation on Thursday resulted in the arrests of five men, with charges ranging from soliciting prostitution to soliciting a minor. The sting, conducted at a Comfort Inn hotel, has sent ripples through the Tulsa community, as one of those arrested is a recently identified local pastor.
details of the Arrests
Authorities confirmed the arrests of Rohan BhoJwanti, 30, and Jeremy fair, both from Tulsa; Matthew Eddy, 28, of Tulsa; David Raridon, 60, of Missouri; and Christopher LeBleu, 54, of Louisiana. According to police statements, contact with the individuals began online and continued via text messaging, ultimately leading them to the Glenpool hotel.
While BhoJwanti, Eddy, and LeBleu face charges of soliciting prostitution, Raridon was arrested on the more serious charge of soliciting a minor. All five individuals are now being held at the Tulsa county Jail. This case highlights the complexities of online interactions and the potential for criminal activity facilitated through digital platforms. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, reports of online enticement have increased substantially in recent years.
Pastor among Those Arrested
Jeremy Fair, formerly associated with Christ Presbyterian Church in Tulsa, is among those arrested. The church has swiftly responded to the allegations, immediately placing Fair on indefinite leave and removing his profile from the church’s official website. The church released a statement acknowledging the situation, but provided no further details.
Glenpool Police Chief Jeremy Plane addressed the surprising nature of the arrests,particularly considering the positions held by some of those involved. He noted that community leaders are not immune to engaging in illicit behavior, and that law enforcement encounters individuals from all walks of life. He stated, “I think the general public at times is surprised that community leaders woudl be involved in anything nefarious; regrettably, 23 years has shown me that you just never know.”
| Name | Age | City/State | Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rohan BhoJwanti | 30 | Tulsa, OK | Soliciting Prostitution |
| Matthew Eddy | 28 | Tulsa, OK | Soliciting Prostitution |
| David Raridon | 60 | Missouri | Solicitation of a Minor |
| Christopher LeBleu | 54 | louisiana | Soliciting Prostitution |
| Jeremy Fair | 49 | Tulsa, OK | Soliciting Prostitution |
This case is developing, and further information will be released as it becomes available. Local authorities are continuing their examination to determine if there are any additional individuals involved.
Understanding Solicitation Laws
Solicitation laws, varying by state, aim to deter individuals from engaging in the exchange of money for sexual acts. These laws often target both those offering and those seeking such services. The penalties for solicitation can range from misdemeanor charges with fines to felony charges, particularly when minors are involved. It’s crucial to understand the legal ramifications of such activities, as they carry significant consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions about Solicitation
- What is solicitation? Solicitation generally refers to the act of offering or requesting sexual acts in exchange for something of value, typically money.
- Is solicitation a felony? Solicitation can be a felony, particularly if it involves a minor or other aggravating circumstances.
- What are the penalties for solicitation in Oklahoma? penalties vary, but may include fines, jail time, and a criminal record.
- Can online activity lead to solicitation charges? Yes, online interactions that lead to an agreement to exchange money for sexual acts can result in solicitation charges.
- What should I do if I suspect someone is involved in solicitation? Report your concerns to local law enforcement.
What are your thoughts on this case and the implications for community trust? Do you believe increased online monitoring is a necessary step to combat such activity?
What are the potential legal ramifications for someone charged with solicitation of a minor in Oklahoma?
Undercover Sting at Glenpool Hotel Leads to Five Arrests
Glenpool Prostitution Sting: Details of the Operation
A recent undercover operation conducted in Glenpool,Oklahoma,resulted in the arrests of five men on October 25,2025. The sting, focused on combating prostitution and related offenses, took place at a local hotel. Authorities utilized undercover officers to identify and apprehend individuals allegedly involved in soliciting illegal sexual services. this operation highlights ongoing efforts to address sex trafficking and illegal prostitution within the state.
The Arrests and Charges
According to News9, the arrests were made after undercover officers arranged meetings with the suspects at the hotel. Upon arrival,the men were taken into custody.
* Total Arrests: 5 men
* Key Charge: Solicitation of prostitution.
* Additional Charge: One of the arrested individuals faces the additional charge of soliciting a minor, a significantly more serious offense.
The identities of those arrested have not yet been fully released pending further examination. Law enforcement officials are emphasizing the severity of the charges,particularly the allegation involving a minor. Human trafficking concerns are always paramount in these investigations.
Understanding Oklahoma’s prostitution Laws
Oklahoma law strictly prohibits prostitution, with penalties varying based on the offense and any aggravating factors.
* Prostitution is a misdemeanor: Typically punishable by fines and/or jail time.
* Solicitation is also illegal: Individuals offering to engage in prostitution are also subject to criminal charges.
* Aggravating Factors: soliciting a minor, repeat offenses, or involvement in organized crime can lead to felony charges and significantly harsher penalties.
The state also has laws in place to combat sex trafficking, recognizing it as a severe form of human rights violation. These laws aim to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
The role of Undercover Operations in Combating Prostitution
Undercover stings are a common tactic employed by law enforcement agencies to disrupt prostitution rings and identify individuals involved in the demand for illegal sexual services.
* Effectiveness: These operations can be effective in identifying and arresting both those offering and seeking prostitution.
* Risk Mitigation: They allow officers to gather evidence safely and efficiently, minimizing risks to the public.
* Targeting traffickers: Undercover work is crucial in identifying and dismantling human trafficking networks,which often exploit vulnerable individuals.
Local Hotel Cooperation & Community Impact
While the specific hotel involved has not been publicly named, local authorities confirmed their cooperation with the investigation. Hotels are often targeted in these operations due to their potential use as venues for illegal activities.
* Hotel Responsibility: Hotels have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment and prevent their premises from being used for criminal purposes.
* Community Safety: efforts to combat prostitution and sex trafficking contribute to overall community safety and well-being.
* Victim Support: Alongside enforcement, resources are often directed towards supporting victims of sexual exploitation and providing them with pathways to recovery.
Resources for Victims of Sex Trafficking
If you or someone you know is a victim of sex trafficking, help is available.
* National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888
* oklahoma Human Trafficking Task Force: https://ok.gov/okhtf/
* Polaris Project: https://polarisproject.org/
Keywords: Glenpool, Oklahoma, prostitution, sting operation, undercover officers, arrests, sex trafficking, solicitation, human trafficking, Oklahoma laws, hotel, community safety, victim resources, News9.
