Virginia Trucker Sentenced To 17 Years For Transporting Teen For Sexual Activity

A Virginia trucker arrested by Naval Station Newport Police was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison for transporting a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

David Romero Reyes, 55, had pleaded guilty to the charge in September, according to a media release from the U.S. Attorney's Office.

See also: Boston Man Sex Trafficked Teen In Rhode Island

“The sentence imposed in this case reflects the defendant’s monstrous actions," U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda said in the release.

"There is no place in our federal district or in our society for such egregious abuse of a child,” Calenda said. “This office will use every available resource to ensure that those who prey on the most vulnerable will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

See also: Parish Administrator's Boyfriend Stole $10K Check From St. Luke's Church In East Greenwich: Cops

Romero Reyes, a resident of Stafford, was detained by Naval Station Newport Police following a routine background check to enter the Navy base to make a delivery, according to the release.

"Police determined that he was wanted in Texas on a charge of felony assault of a child," the release said.

See also: Snowplow Driver Hit East Greenwich Cumberland Farm's Manager With Sideview Mirror: Cops

"The young girl was located inside the sleeping compartment of the truck during a routine inspection," the release said. "The girl was brought for a medical examination at Hasbro Children’s Hospital where it was learned that she was approximately five months pregnant."

See also: Dead Man Found Outside Tiverton Garage: Cops

The teen had been reported missing from her Virginia home in July 2020 when she was 14 years old, according to the release.

"An investigation determined that Romero Reyes was known to the girl and to her family prior to her disappearance," the release said.

See also: Husband And Wife Hit By SUV Crossing Cranston Street: Cops