Over the weekend, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Unit, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations conducted a joint human trafficking investigation in a Hixson hotel, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of narcotics, cash, and a firearm.

During the investigation, it was determined that two men were traveling to the hotel with the intention of having sexual relations with individuals they believed were minors. One of the men was previously deported.

“The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is committed to proactively investigating, identifying, and arresting those who seek to prey upon our children,” said Sheriff Austin Garrett. “This investigation, the arrests, and the never-ending work of our personnel in partnership with our state and federal partners reflect that commitment. Predators, be warned: in Hamilton County, we are hunting you, and we will not stop.” 

Here are the following arrestees and their charges:

Dakota Neetz, 31, of a Lantana Lane address, was charged with Trafficking for Commercial Sex Act, Solicitation of a Minor, and two counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

Fidel Navarro-Lopez, 21, of an East Ridge Drive address, was charged with Trafficking for Commercial Sex Act, Solicitation of a Minor, two counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, Resisting Stop, Frisk, Halt or Search, and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Tommy Reed Jr., 26, with no address as he is homeless,  was charged with Promoting Prostitution.

According to a press release on the TBI website, seven individuals were identified as possible victims and accepted services through two local human trafficking victim service organizations, WillowBend Farms and Street Grace.

This investigation shows local, state, and federal law enforcement working together to combat a criminal element that operates in the shadows of our community.

This information is preliminary and subject to change.