BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — A Minnesota man who performed background investigations for federal law enforcement applicants was arrested this week as part of an undercover prostitution sting operation, local police announced. The arrest, made during a broader enforcement effort targeting individuals seeking to buy sex, raised concerns given the man’s role in vetting personnel for sensitive government positions.
Federal Background Investigator Among Those Arrested
Police identified the suspect as a 36-year-old Maple Grove resident and a Department of Defense background investigator who handled reports for applicants seeking federal security clearances. Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges described his inclusion in the sweep as one of the most disturbing aspects of the operation, given his connection to security screening.
During the sting, officers posed as sex workers to target individuals attempting to solicit prostitution. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement partners assisted in the coordinated operation.
Record Number of Arrests in Sting Operation
According to police, a total of approximately 30 men were arrested over several days under “Operation Lookin’ For Love in All the Wrong Places.” Officers reported engaging online with more than 300 people allegedly seeking to pay for sex in Bloomington.
Of those detained, most are expected to face gross misdemeanor charges related to solicitation, while two have been booked on felony counts because of prior convictions. Investigators also indicated one case may involve potential sex trafficking charges and remains under further examination.
Community Impact and Official Reactions
Bloomington law enforcement stressed the importance of community safety and said the operation aimed to discourage commercial sexual exploitation. Chief Hodges noted that unusual public rumors about immigration enforcement presence in the area slightly complicated the undercover work but did not derail the investigation.
Authorities have not released formal criminal filings or final charges against the federal background investigator. Representatives from the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding his status or employment.
