The operation targeted individuals who were allegedly traveling with the intent to engage in sexual activity with children.
STARK COUNTY, Ohio — Seven men were arrested during a two-day undercover operation in Stark County aimed at catching child predators, according to Jackson Township police, including two men who authorities say were in the country illegally.
Officials say “Operation Unsportsmanlike Conduct” was carried out on Thursday, July 31 and Friday, Aug. 1.
The Cleveland Division of the FBI and the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force partnered with local police departments from Streetsboro, Toledo, Louisville, Perry, Beachwood and Massillon, as well as the sheriff’s offices in Stark and Portage counties.
According to police, the operation targeted individuals who were allegedly traveling with the intent to engage in sexual activity with children.
The following suspects were arrested and booked into the Stark County Jail on charges of importuning, attempt to commit unlawful sexual conduct with a minor and possessing criminal tools:
- Edmund Starr, 38, of Broadview Heights
- Ryan Strouse, 37, of Massillon
- Michael Chaffee, 66, of Wadsworth
- Jacob Bauer, 48, of Massillon
All four suspects were arraigned on Monday morning. The judge set Strouse’s bond at $15,000. Bauer and Chaffee also received $15,000 bonds, which they posted. Starr’s bond was set at $100,000.
In addition, Andres Gallardo, 44, of Cleveland, was charged with the following:
- Importuning
- Attempt to commit rape
- Possessing criminal tools
Gallardo’s bond was set at $50,000.
Two other men, Mustafa Cakar, 24, of Pittsburgh, and Alberto Perez, 28, of Canton, were also arrested.
Both face charges of importuning, attempt to commit unlawful sexual conduct with a minor and possessing criminal tools.
According to court records, their bonds were set at $25,000.
According to police, they were referred to the Department of Homeland Security’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for deportation.
“We would [like] to thank all of our partners for making this operation very successful.” Jackson Township police said in a statement.
