Grand Junction Sting Arrests Four Suspected Online Predators

Grand Junction parents and neighbors were a bit shocked to learn that a multi-agency Internet Crimes Against Children Operation ended with the arrests of four online predators over the past week.

The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security’s ICAC Task Force worked undercover online from Feb. 27 through March 2 to identify adults allegedly attempting to contact minors. Keep scrolling to learn more about the arrest and who was taken to the Mesa County Detention Facility on felony charges.

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What Happened in the Western Colorado Sting Operation

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Members of law enforcement, including the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security’s ICAC Task Force, executed a four-day investigation targeting adults allegedly soliciting minors online. The undercover online interactions resulted in the arrest of four adults taken into custody for their attempts to contact minors and sexual assault allegations.

Who Was Arrested in the Grand Junction Investigation

KJCT News 8 reports the four individuals arrested during the operation include: Max Jones, 49, of Grand Junction; Jose Suarez‑Tavera, 42, of Grand Junction; Angella Garcia, 28, of Grand Junction; and James Kellerby, 66, of Clifton. The charges vary by defendant but include luring a child, enticement of a child, criminal attempt, internet sexual exploitation, and sexual assault. These are serious charges under Colorado law. Suarez‑Tavera was also placed on administrative leave from a local school district while the investigation continues.

How Parents in Western Colorado Can Protect Kids Online

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Parents in Western Colorado should speak openly with kids about online risks, review children’s social media settings and contacts, and the built-in parental controls on devices and apps for an extra layer of safety for kids who spend time online. If you encounter something suspicious, contact local law enforcement or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Cyber Tipline.