FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Nine Arrested During Operation Joint Forces

CAMPBELL COUNTY, VA - On January 31, 2025, the Altavista Police Department, in collaboration with the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office Crime Suppression Unit, arrested nine (9) males for violating Code of Virginia § 18.2-346.01 (Solicitation of Prostitution). 

The following individuals were arrested as part of Operation Joint Forces:

• Christopher W. Bright of Lynchburg, VA
• William D. Bulerin of Hurt, VA
• Carry W. Keenan of Hurt, VA
• Branden M. Lenover of Madison Heights, VA
• Sandeep S. Mathone of Lynchburg, VA
• James M. Miller Jr. of Lynchburg, VA
• John A. Nutter II of Roanoke, VA
• Earl L. Robertson Jr. of Hurt, VA
• Johnny R. Wagner of Gretna, VA

Operation Joint Forces was designed to curb demand for commercial sex in Altavista and Campbell County, aiming, in turn, to reduce the sexual exploitation of vulnerable community members. 

“Sex trafficking can only flourish where there’s a demand for commercial sex,” Sheriff Whit Clark said. “Reducing this demand is just one part of attacking sex trafficking in our communities.” 

Altavista Police Chief Tommy Merricks said, “I concur with Sheriff Clark that turning people’s bodies into commodities isn’t right under any circumstances, and we want to make sure it’s deterred in the town of Altavista. We value our partnership with the Sheriff’s Office.”

Any further information regarding this operation will be provided as an addendum press release.