Between May 6 and May 8, 2026, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office conducted a high-profile undercover operation dubbed “Undercover Chatter” in Stuart, Florida. This three-day sting specifically targeted adults using online platforms to solicit minors for sexual activity. Working alongside detectives, investigative journalist Chris Hansen—known for his work on To Catch a Predator—was on-site to interview the suspects as they arrived at a surveillance-equipped house, expecting to meet a child.
Undercover detectives acted as “chatters,” posing as 14-year-olds to communicate with the suspects. Six men were ultimately arrested after traveling to the designated location: Emerson Acabal Alvarez, Roland Jean, Robert Walker, Anier Soto, Ricardo Ramirez De La Pena, and Giovani A. Molano. The arrests led to various felony charges, including traveling to meet a minor and the unlawful use of a computer or communication device to lure a child.
During the operation, some suspects offered unusual justifications for their presence, including one individual who claimed he was acting as a “Good Samaritan” intended to help the minor. Sheriff John Budensiek emphasized the importance of these stings in removing predators from the community and indicated that additional arrests could follow as the investigation continues. Footage from the operation is expected to be featured in upcoming episodes of Hansen’s show, Takedown.