The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Human Exploitation and Recovery Operations (H.E.R.O.) Team arrested 37-year-old Ivan Cruz on February 12, 2026, following a targeted operation focused on human trafficking and child exploitation.
According to authorities, H.E.R.O. detectives carried out an operation targeting individuals who attempt to exploit children online. Investigators say Cruz used a social media platform to contact someone he believed was a 14-year-old child. He allegedly arranged to meet the minor at a local park with the intention of engaging in sexual activity and brought illicit narcotics for their use.
After his arrest, Cruz was taken to the Washoe County Detention Facility. He faces several felony charges including Attempted Statutory Sexual Seduction by a Person Over 21, Attempted Kidnapping of a Minor, eight counts of Attempted Sexual Abuse of a Child, Luring a Child with Use of a Computer, Attempted Use of a Minor as the Subject of a Sexual Portrayal in a Performance, and Possession of a Controlled Substance. Additionally, he is charged with two misdemeanors: Attempted Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Sheriff Darin Balaam stated: “The work of our H.E.R.O. detectives is critical in eliminating the demand for the sexual exploitation of our community’s youth. These intolerable acts will not stand in Washoe County, and we will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to exploit children. I urge parents and guardians to diligently monitor their children’s social media platforms and internet activity and to maintain open communication about online safety.”
Authorities say this case remains under investigation.
Anyone who is or knows someone who is experiencing human trafficking or exploitation can reach out for help by contacting the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office H.E.R.O. Team at Hero-Tips@washoecounty.gov or calling the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
