Youngstown, Ohio — A multi-week undercover human trafficking sting led by the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force has resulted in the arrests of 13 men, according to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. The operation, conducted throughout November and December, targeted individuals allegedly seeking to buy sex — including cases involving minors — across the Greater Youngstown region.
Those arrested include men from Akron, Canton, Columbiana County, Pennsylvania, Florida, and two foreign nationals. One of the most notable arrests involved a podiatric surgeon from Boardman.
The task force, directed by Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene, worked alongside multiple local, state, and federal agencies to carry out coordinated undercover stings.
Two Men Accused of Attempting to Buy Sex with Minors
Among the most serious cases were two men accused of attempting to purchase sex from individuals they believed to be underage.
Randy McCauley, 39, of Canton
Arrested on Black Friday, McCauley faces felony charges including:
- Compelling prostitution
- Possession of criminal tools
Investigators say he attempted to buy sex with a minor, making him one of the operation’s most significant arrests.
Chris Barley, of Cuyahoga Falls
Arrested two weeks prior, Barley is a former attorney whose law license is currently suspended. He is charged with:
- Engaging in prostitution
- Possession of criminal tools
Both men were taken into custody after arriving at arranged meeting locations during the sting.
Ohio AG Applauds Task Force’s Efforts
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost praised the operation’s success, emphasizing its timing during the holiday season.
“While most Ohioans were gathered with their families for Thanksgiving and preparing for Christmas, agents from our task force were diligently working to arrest those seeking to buy sex in the Mahoning Valley,” Yost said.
He added that such enforcement efforts are crucial to reducing the demand that drives human trafficking.
Eleven Additional Suspects Arrested
The following 11 men were also arrested as part of the trafficking operation:
- Patrick Dilworth, 38, of Petersburg – Previously convicted in July for similar charges; this time allegedly arranged to pay for sex with someone he believed was under 18.
- Kyle Peterson, of Erie, Pennsylvania – Reportedly refused to exit his vehicle and attempted to delete messages during the encounter.
- Kenneth Buzzard, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Abram Simons, of East Liverpool
- Dr. Daniel Kubala, 35, of Boardman – Identified himself as a podiatric surgeon, arriving to meet undercover officers while wearing surgical scrubs. Records show he graduated from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine and works at East Liverpool City Hospital.
- Carlos Velasquez, of Honduras – Officials say Velasquez was in the U.S. illegally.
- Zacheus Inalien, 42, of Orlando, Florida – Accused of attempting to purchase sex and narcotics. Investigators say he has an extensive criminal history, including assault on a peace officer, auto theft, and aggravated burglary.
- John Bittence, 56, of Hiram
- Olusegun Atoyebi, 40, of Nigeria
- Patrick Gill, 24, of Sebring
- Richard Bruzda, 45, of Grove City, Pennsylvania – Also accused of possessing drug paraphernalia.
Officials noted that more charges could be forthcoming as investigations continue.
Human Trafficking Remains a Persistent Threat
Authorities emphasized that human trafficking remains a significant issue in Ohio, with demand-driven operations like this sting continuing to expose individuals attempting to exploit vulnerable people.
The Attorney General’s Office frequently partners with regional task forces to identify traffickers, buyers, and victims, while also raising awareness among residents about recognizing signs of trafficking.
Law Enforcement Encourages Public Vigilance
Officials have urged the public to report suspicious activity, stressing that community involvement is a key component in dismantling trafficking networks and protecting at-risk individuals.
More updates are expected as cases proceed through the courts.
Join the Conversation
How can Ohio communities better support anti-trafficking efforts? Do you believe undercover operations like this are effective in reducing demand?
Share your thoughts in the comments — your voice helps support awareness and prevention.
