The New Rochelle Police Department arrested Marco A Chavez, a 31-year-old resident of New Rochelle, by members of the Criminal
Investigations Division. The arrest follows a thorough investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct involving a minor, culminating in a successful sting operation on March 15.

The investigation began on Feb. 25, when a 16-year-old female and her mother filed a complaint with the New Rochelle Police Department. The complainants alleged that Chavez had sent inappropriate text messages to the minor. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations
Division reviewed evidence that indicated Chavez was attempting to groom the victim for sexual activity.

Detectives then employed a department-issued cellular phone to engage in communication with Chavez, posing as the 16-yearold. Over the course of several exchanges, the suspect’s messages became increasingly sexual in nature, providing critical evidence of his intent. Based on this communication, detectives organized a sting operation to apprehend the suspect.

Chavez agreed to meet the individual he believed to be the minor at a local park. On March 15, at approximately 9:20 p.m., Chavez
arrived at the designated location via taxi and was immediately taken into custody. A search of his person revealed cocaine, alcohol, and
condoms, further compounding the severity of his actions. The investigation remains ongoing.

Chavez is charged with Attempted use of a child in a sexual performance, a felony; disseminating indecent material to a minor, a felony; attempted rape, a misdemeanor; and criminal possession of a controlled substance, a felony.