An undercover online investigation targeting individuals attempting to exploit children over the internet has been underway since late July. As a result, the Livingston Police Department has identified and apprehended adults seeking to engage in sexual activity with minors.
The investigation resulted in the following arrests for online solicitation of a minor: Randy Newman, 31, of Goodrich; Hugh Haines, 35, of Coldspring; Nicholas Vachon, 25, of Houston; Marc Coar, 57, of Thicket; Brandon Rose, 28, of Livingston and Christopher Sullivan, 29, of Beaumont.
Additional charges of possession of child pornography are pending against at least one individual.
“The multiple arrests involving online solicitation of a minor underscores a very real and growing threat facing communities everywhere. The safety and wellbeing of our children will always remain this department’s top priority. Predators are increasingly using phones, gaming platforms, and social media to target young people, and it is critical that parents, guardians, and community members stay engaged and vigilant,” Livingston Police Chief David Mitchell said.
“I want to commend the investigators and officers who worked swiftly and thoroughly on these cases. Their dedication reflects our ongoing commitment to preventing crimes against children and holding offenders fully accountable,” Mitchell said.
“We urge families to talk openly with their children about online safety, monitor digital activity, and report anything that seems suspicious. Protecting our youth is a responsibility we all share, and the Livingston Police Department will continue to use every available resource to stop those who seek to harm them,” Mitchell said.
