Milford Man Arrested In Prostitution Sting Operation In Fairfield: Police

FAIRFIELD, CT — Seven men were arrested this month on a charge of soliciting sexual acts, a Class A misdemeanor, following a prostitution sting operation in Fairfield, according to police. One of the suspects is from Milford.

"Each individual made arrangements with an undercover officer posing as an escort and traveled to Fairfield where they exchanged or offered money for sexual acts before being taken into custody," said Sgt. Jenna Wellington in a statement.

The following suspects were arrested on March 13:

• Christopher Birarelli, 39, of Trumbull
• Scott Wootton, 57, of Milford
• Luis Torres Pesantez, 49, of White Plains, NY
• Ricardo Nieves, 29, of Monroe
• Timaury Gay, 21, of Bridgeport
• Cesar Rivera, 47, of Trumbull
• Jason Santerre, 43, of Seymour

The sting operation was conducted by members of the Fairfield Police Department Neighborhood
Enforcement Team, Fairfield Detective Bureau, and the Stratford Police Department Vice Unit.

Where the arrests occurred were not disclosed.

Six of the seven suspects were released on promises to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court on Thursday, but Birarelli was additionally issued a charge of possession of a controlled substance and was released after posting a $10,000 bond, according to police. Birarelli is also due in court on Thursday.

Wellington said the operation was part of the department's efforts to investigate activity related to prostitution and human trafficking.

"The Fairfield Police Department appreciates our partnership with the Stratford Police Department, and thank them for their assistance in these complex investigations," Wellington said. "These operations are not only focused on enforcement, but also on reducing demand and identifying potential victims of exploitation. Engaging in prostitution related activity is not a victimless crime. Officers are aware that these activities often involve exploitation and, in some cases, human trafficking."