A recent sting operation in the Bay Area conducted by the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and coordinated by the Brentwood Police has resulted in the arrests of three men for alleged involvement in child sexual exploitation. The week-long operation saw collaboration from twelve law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations. Among those arrested is 48-year-old Tommy Vance of Brentwood, who worked as a high school football referee.
According to CBS San Francisco, Vance was apprehended after he tried to arrange a meeting with a minor for the purpose of engaging in lewd acts. Detectives searched Vance's home under warrant and found 15 firearms illegally in his possession – a concerning discovery given his previous felony conviction. Vance has been incarcerated without bail and appeared in court on May 5.
The Contra Costa County Superior Court has since sentenced Vance on felony charges, reports the Contra Costa County official website. The Honorable Joni T. Hiramoto handed down a sentence of two years and 10 months in state prison on Monday for Vance's attempts to coerce what he believed was a 13-year-old into meeting him for sex, as well as firearm possession as a convicted felon.
Furthermore, Vance has been commanded to register as a sex offender for 20 years following his release. "Thanks to the investigative efforts of Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Brentwood Police, we were able to ensure this defendant faces consequences for his actions," District Attorney Diana Becton stated in a Contra Costa County press release. The disclosure of Vance's involvement in youth football has raised concerns, prompting authorities to release his photo in pursuit of identifying any potential victims. Those with information are urged to contact the Brentwood Police Department.
The two other suspects arrested in the sting have been identified as 29-year-old Anthony Mozingo of Elk Grove and Sheldon Ludd of Sacramento, also aged 29. Each face charges related to child sexual exploitation, and their specific roles in these crimes are under investigation.
