Net Nanny operation leads to 12 arrests
By Terry Murry on Thursday, November 17th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
CHEHALIS – The Washington State Patrol, law enforcement agencies in Lewis County and several partner agencies arrested 12 individuals this past weekend for alleged involvement in the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. This is the 20th Operation Net Nanny spearheaded by WSP’s Missing and Exploited Task Force, an Internet Crimes Against Children affiliate.
Since the first operation began in August 2015, the task force has netted a total of 312 arrests and removed more than 31 children from danger across Washington because of police intervention. Primary crimes investigated are rape of a child in the first and second-degree – attempt, communication with a minor for immoral purposes, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The names of the individuals taken into custody during the operation were Michael A. Gillette, 31, and Tyler D. Clark, 23, both of Chehalis; Adis Lao Cirlo-Hernandez, 23, and Leonardo Tranquilino, 31, both of Centralia; Wayne A. Rigby, 74, and Antonio T. Nolasco, 36, both of Shelton; Justin Hinchliffe, 43, of Olympia; Gerry G. Greateaks, 50, of Vancouver; Zachary Case, 21, of Belfair; Douglas R. Clark, 45, of Rochester; Robert E. Morrison, 65, of Kelso; and Mario A. Fernandez, 33, of Napavine.
“It is unfortunate that there are some that are actively preying on children,” Lewis County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer said. “However, it is reassuring to know that so many agencies are willing to respond to help hold those people accountable.”
The cases will be reviewed by the Lewis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to determine which potential criminal charges will be filed.
