BLACKSTONE — Chief Gregory Gilmore reports that the Blackstone Police Department has charged three individuals in connection with an ongoing prostitution solicitation investigation.
JOHN FLANAGAN, AGE 60, OF CUMBERLAND, RHODE ISLAND; TIMOTHY MCLAUGHLIN, AGE 55, OF BLACKSTONE and JOSEPH VIEIRA, AGE 65, OF SEEKONK were each arrested and charged with Sexual Conduct for a Fee.
On Thursday, Dec. 30, 2021, the Blackstone Police Department in cooperation with the Blackstone Valley Drug and Counter Crimes Task Force, arrested three subjects following an investigation and subsequent operation that focused on the alleged solicitation of sexual conduct in exchange for cash via social media. The investigation was initiated after Blackstone Police detectives developed information regarding alleged prostitution solicitation from a previous case.
“This investigation should send a strong message to individuals soliciting prostitution in our community that not only will it not be tolerated, but our department will proactively seek out and arrest those participating in these crimes. When these types of activities occur in our neighborhoods, it has an effect on the safety, wellbeing and quality of life of everyone in those neighborhoods,” Chief Gilmore said. “These arrests are a result of excellent investigative work by the agencies and officers involved, and we will work with the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office to fully prosecute these cases.”
The three individuals were arraigned in Uxbridge District Court on Dec. 30 and were released on personal recognizance.
A fourth suspect was also charged, but charges were dismissed on Dec. 31 by an Uxbridge District Court judge following arraignment.
These are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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