GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: In a chilling operation code-named ‘Bada Bing,’ eight men have been charged with possession and promotion of child pornography in Vermont. The arrests, which followed an intensive investigation by state and federal agencies, are part of a broader effort to crack down on online exploitation of children.
The eight suspects, aged 25 to 74, were rounded up after search warrants executed across the Green Mountain State. They include Frank Farley, 37, of Rutland; Russell Biathrow, 61, of Killington; Mark Hulett, 48, of Ferrisburgh; Uriah Shows, 29, of Middlebury; Bernard Tinker, 58, of Colchester; Richard Weston, 25, of Huntington; Louis Hamlin II, 74, of Huntington; and Sean Fiore, 35, of Burlington.
U.S. Attorney Christina E. Nolan and Vermont Attorney General T. J. Donovan stressed that the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. ‘Society should be judged by how it protects its most innocent and vulnerable members,’ said Nolan. ‘Children are our future, and we will fight tirelessly for their safety.’
Attorney General Donovan highlighted the critical role of ICAC in protecting children, noting the unit’s extensive educational initiatives and arrests since 2015. VT-ICAC has been pivotal in raising awareness about internet safety, conducting over 2,000 educational forums in the past three years.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving numerous law enforcement agencies, including the Vermont State Police, Homeland Security Investigations, and local police departments. VT-ICAC’s K9 unit, Mojo, played a significant role in evidence recovery during the search warrants.
As the investigation continues, Grimy Times will provide updates on this ongoing case.
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Key Facts
- State: Vermont
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Sex Crimes|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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