Two Arrested in Nanuet, NY Sex Trafficking Operation Involving Prostitution and Child Endangerment

Clarkstown Police Arrest Two Suspects Following Community Reports of Suspicious Activity

In a disturbing case that highlights the intersection of sex trafficking and child endangerment, two individuals have been arrested in Nanuet, New York, following a targeted undercover operation by the Clarkstown Police Department. The arrests were made after concerned residents reported unusual and frequent activity at a home on Smith Road, prompting authorities to begin an online and in-person investigation into potential sex crimes.

According to Chief Jeffrey Wanamaker, the community's vigilance played a critical role in uncovering what turned out to be a residence being used for the purposes of prostitution and sex trafficking, with children present and unable to leave their rooms during illicit activities.

Online Surveillance and Undercover Tactics Lead to Arrests

Members of the Clarkstown Street Crime unit conducted surveillance of digital platforms commonly used for commercial sex advertisements and trafficking coordination. Their efforts culminated in the identification and arrest of Luis Mendez-Valdez, 31, and Negri Sanz Del Orbe, 42, both residents of the home in question. Both face multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including promoting prostitution, sex trafficking, and child endangerment.

During a brief court appearance, Del Orbe was reportedly emotional, crying throughout the two-minute hearing. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials revealed that several children were discovered inside the home, confined to their rooms while the suspects allegedly engaged in and facilitated criminal activity.

“The conditions were horrible,” Chief Wanamaker stated. “They were young kids. They couldn’t leave their rooms.”

Children Removed and Hospitalized; CPS Steps In

Upon entering the residence, police found children living in dangerous and traumatic conditions. The children were immediately taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation and are now under the protection of Child Protective Services (CPS).

Officials have confirmed that the children were not physically harmed during the arrests but were exposed to potentially long-lasting psychological trauma as a result of their living conditions and proximity to criminal behavior.

A notice of eviction for nonpayment of rent was posted on the door of the residence, further emphasizing the instability and neglect present in the household.

Community Response and Call for Vigilance

Clarkstown Town Supervisor George Hoehmann, who lives just three blocks away from the residence, emphasized that sex trafficking and prostitution are not “victimless crimes.”

“There are always people who are victimized along the way,” Hoehmann said. “If it doesn’t look right, it’s probably not right. Please report it to your local authorities.”

This case serves as a stark reminder that sex trafficking can happen in any neighborhood — even in quiet suburban communities like Nanuet.

Survivors of Abuse NY Supports Victims of Sex Trafficking

Sex trafficking is an egregious violation of human rights that often occurs behind closed doors, leaving victims — especially children — physically and emotionally scarred. At Survivors of Abuse NY, we are committed to supporting survivors and their families by holding traffickers and negligent parties legally accountable.

Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY has extensive experience representing victims of sex trafficking, forced prostitution, and child abuse throughout the state of New York. Our team works tirelessly to ensure survivors receive the justice and financial compensation they deserve for the trauma they’ve endured.

Take Action: Know the Signs and Your Legal Rights

Victims of sex trafficking are often coerced or manipulated into silence, but there is help available. If you suspect someone is being trafficked — or if you are a survivor — legal action can provide a path toward safety, accountability, and healing.

Contact Thomas Giuffra, Esq. – The Abuse Lawyer NY today at (646) 413-6394 for a free and confidential consultation. Don’t wait. Help is available.

Source:

ABC7NY