DPS prostitution sting at hotel in League City nets 11 arrests A prostitution sting by the Texas Department of Public Safety with the assistance of the Houston Police Department Vice Division Human Trafficking Unit made 11 felony prostitution arrests on Tuesday (12/19/2023). Using a hotel in the 2300 block of Interstate 45 in League City, DPS investigators placed prostitution advertisements on websites known to be fronts for promoting the sex trade. Those arrested had called or texted the number on the online ads and arranged for hookups at the hotel. When the “Johns” arrived at the hotel room, an undercover officer discussed having sex with the man in exchange for cash and, at times, payment by CashApp, according to probable cause affidavits provided by the Galveston County District Attorney’s office. Prices ranged from $80 to $160, according to arrest records. According to court records, the sting operation took place over 6 hours starting at about 10:40 AM on Tuesday. Among those arrested was prominent Galveston County Defense Attorney and former League City police officer Daniel Allen Krieger, 51. He was charged with felony solicitation of prostitution as the payor. Based on the magistrate judge’s recommendation, he was released via pre-trial release (personal bond) instead of the $3,000 bond. Personal bonds (also known as pre-trial release) are an alternative to the general bond system. They are allowed if a judge feels the defendant is likelier to stick with the release provisions and not be arrested while awaiting trial. Galveston County’s pre-trial release program - around since the 1970s - is one of the more successful in the state, with more than 95% released on pre-trial remaining in compliance until the end of their case. In those cases, the defendant pays 3% of the bond amount vs. 10% to a bail bond company. Jail records show that all those arrested had been released. It was unconfirmed how many were provided a pre-trial release. Eight arrested were charged with felony solicitation and released on a $3,000 bond. Three, however, had additional charges. Jesus Bahena Jr., 42, was also charged with assault of a police officer after reportedly running into an officer as he tried to escape custody. His bonds totaled $13,000. According to arrest records, Julio Cesar Martinez-Rosales, 36, of Houston, arrived at the hotel in a stolen vehicle. He was also charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. His bonds totaled $10,000. Anthony Dwayne Phillips, Jr., 33, of Friendswood, reportedly offered crystal meth to the undercover officer. Phillips was also charged with possession of a controlled substance. His bonds totaled $6,000. Also charged with felony solicitation payor and bond set at $3,000: Frank Martin Helms, 65 of La Marque; Richard Allen Ainsworth of League City; Denis Pablo Moreno-Criado, 32, of Friendswood; John Ramjet Bridjmohan, 39, of Alvin; Muzzamuel Ahmad Khan, 31, of League City; Terry Michael Bradley, 33, of Friendswood and Mehmet Canberk Gumurhan,29, of Galveston. Gumurhan’s arrest came the same day as his birthday. DPS communications Trooper Sgt. Stephen Woodard said he had no additional information to provide regarding the sting operation.

Posted by i45NOW TJ Aulds at 2023-12-21 12:48:10 UTC