Members of the Berks County District Attorney’s Human Trafficking Task Force conducted an undercover ‘Catch a Predator’ sting on March 13-14, 2023 in an effort to combat sex trade in Berks County.
In the operation, undercover task force detectives placed ads on websites commonly used for sex trade. The individuals replied to the advertisements and agreed to meet and have sexual relations with minors at a predetermined location in Berks County. When the individuals arrived at the location detectives placed under arrest.
A total of eight individuals were arrested and transported to the Berks County Sheriff’s Central Processing Center where they were officially charged and arraigned by MDJ Gail Greth.
Charges ranged from Trafficking In Individuals, Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse, Statutory Sexual Assault, Unlawful Contact with Minor, Corruption of Minors, Criminal Attempt.
The following individuals were charged: Elvis Anthony Diaz (age 34) of Reading, Isaiah Terrell Speight (age 25) of Laureldale, Eriec Javier Ruiz (age 46) of Reading, Joshua Michael Spencer (age 38) of Bernville, Keith Jalil Washington (age 33) of Reading, Matthew Fisher (age 47) of Reading, Muazong Kha (age 30) of Reading, Corey Moll (age 37) of Mohnton.
“The harsh reality is that human trafficking is happening in our community. Future perpetrators should take heed that the person they’re interacting with on these websites, could be a member of our Human Trafficking Task Force. And if caught, we will arrest and prosecute to the fullest extent of the law,” said District Attorney John T. Adams.
Members of The Berks County District Attorney’s Human Trafficking Task Force participating in the investigation were from the following police departments and agencies; Spring Township PD, Wyomissing PD, Exeter PD, West Reading PD, Central Berks PD, Department of Homeland Security, ZOE International and the Berks County District Attorney’s Detectives Unit.
As in every criminal case, the fact that an arrest occurred or a complaint has been filed is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
