Cartel-Linked Suspect Among Five Arrested in Cullman Sting
Five suspects were arrested in a Cullman child exploitation sting led by local police, the DA’s office, and Covenant Rescue Group
A joint child exploitation operation in Cullman County led to the arrest of five men, including a suspect investigators believe may have connections to cartel-related trafficking activity.
The proactive sting was conducted by the Cullman Police Department in partnership with the Cullman County District Attorney’s Office and the Covenant Rescue Group. Authorities say the operation targeted individuals attempting to exploit minors through online contact and arranged meetings.
Among those arrested was 25-year-old Rodrigo Uriel Hernandez of Maylene. Investigators say Hernandez traveled to Cullman expecting to meet a minor for sexual activity before being taken into custody during the operation.
Law enforcement officials also identified Hernandez as an individual believed to have ties to cartel-related trafficking activity in Mexico. According to investigators, young women in those networks have allegedly been kidnapped and forced into exploitation under criminal organizations. Authorities say the investigation into Hernandez’s background and possible international connections remains ongoing.
In total, five suspects were arrested during the operation. According to police, those charged include Trevan Levan Jefferson of Killeen, Texas; Ian Grae Carroll of Somerville; Timothy James Armstrong of Hamilton; Adrian Neal Horton of Toney; and Hernandez of Maylene. Each faces multiple felony charges, including first-degree human trafficking, electronic solicitation of a child, and traveling to meet a child for an unlawful sex act under Alabama law.
Cullman Police Chief Joey Duncan said the operation was made possible through cooperation among law enforcement and partner organizations.
“We are grateful for the strong partnership with District Attorney Champ Crocker and Covenant Rescue Group,” Duncan said. “Their dedication and collaboration are instrumental in ensuring that those who target children for immoral and criminal purposes are held accountable.”
The operation also received investigative and operational support from Covenant Rescue Group, a nonprofit that works with law enforcement agencies across the country to combat human trafficking and child exploitation.
“Every child deserves protection, and every predator should expect consequences,” said Jared Hudson, CEO of Covenant Rescue Group and a former U.S. Navy SEAL. “When individuals tied to cartel trafficking networks are showing up in Alabama attempting to traffic minors, it underscores the severity of the problem. We will continue working alongside law enforcement to identify these evil people, expose them, and ensure justice is served.”
Officials say the Cullman Police Department and the Cullman County District Attorney’s Office are continuing to lead the criminal investigation and prosecution related to the case.
