The newly formed Stark County Human Trafficking Task Force has made its first arrests following an undercover operation targeting individuals who allegedly believed they were communicating with minors online.
Stark County Sheriff Eric Weisburn said two suspects were taken into custody after arriving at predetermined locations expecting to meet minors for illegal sexual activity.
Stephen James, 42, of Castalia, was arrested after allegedly arriving at a meeting location believing he would meet a minor. Authorities say as deputies moved in, James pulled a firearm from his coat pocket and shot himself in the abdomen. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries, was treated and released from a local hospital, and later booked into the Stark County Jail. He faces multiple felony charges, including attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, resisting arrest, carrying a concealed weapon, importuning, and possession of criminal tools.
Darien J. Carpenter, 30, of Canton, was also arrested after allegedly arriving at a separate location to meet a minor. He faces charges including attempted unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, importuning, and possession of criminal tools. Officials say Carpenter has prior felony convictions, including aggravated robbery and felonious assault.
The operation was conducted with assistance from the FBI, Jackson Township Police Department, and the Stark County Prosecutor’s Office. Sheriff Weisburn said the task force will continue focusing on identifying and apprehending individuals who attempt to exploit minors online. Additional investigations are ongoing.
