Crime & Safety
Hernando County, FL Child Predator Sting: 3 Men Arrested
BROOKSVILLE, FL — Three men have been arrested following a series of undercover investigations in Hernando County targeting individuals allegedly attempting to arrange sexual encounters with minors. A
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-11-06T15:58:36.898Z
BROOKSVILLE, FL — Three men have been arrested following a series of undercover investigations in Hernando County targeting individuals allegedly attempting to arrange sexual encounters with minors. All three were placed in custody without bond, according to sheriff's officials.
According to the Hernando County Sheriff 's Office, detectives assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children ICAC unit conducted multiple undercover operations beginning Oct. 14, 2026, using online applications and text messaging to identify suspects allegedly seeking sexual contact with children.
Investigators identified the three arrested individuals as Shawn Colfer, 32; Salvatore Va, 34; and Keaton Bradley Ellis, 22.
Three Suspects Arrested During Undercover Operations Authorities said Colfer, a Clearwater resident, allegedly communicated with someone he believed was 14 years old and transmitted explicit images before agreeing to meet in Brooksville. Detectives arrested him Oct. 15.
Colfer faces charges including transmission of information harmful to a minor, unlawful use of a two way communication device and traveling to meet a minor following computer solicitation.
Investigators said Va allegedly engaged in sexually explicit conversations with someone he believed was 15 years old. After initially failing to appear at an arranged meeting, authorities said he resumed contact and was subsequently arrested.
Va faces multiple charges, including traveling to meet a minor and transmitting harmful material.
Ellis was arrested following a separate Oct. 16 undercover operation. Investigators alleged he sent an explicit image and traveled to a predetermined meeting location in Brooksville.
Ellis faces three charges related to the alleged conduct.
Sheriff's Office Seeks Public Assistance The sheriff's office credited its ICAC detectives for their investigative work and emphasized its commitment to protecting children from online exploitation.
All charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Anyone with information can contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1 866 990 TIPS 8477 . Anonymous tips may qualify for rewards of up to $5,000.