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Hunter Rivera: Weld County GOP chair among two arrested in child predator operation
Two Northern Colorado residents were arrested in a Larimer County sting operation targeting attempts to buy sex from minors. Investigators posed as minors online; two men arrived at the location and were taken into custody. One suspect, Ismaaeel Abdur-Rahmaan, faces multiple charges and a bond was set; Rivera's arrest sparked calls for resignation from state Republicans.
Why It Matters
The case underscores ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and scrutiny of public officials involved in criminal investigations.
Timeline
4 Events
Republican leaders call for Rivera's resignation
May 16, 2026
Colorado House and Senate Republicans called for Hunter Rivera's resignation, calling the charges 'sickening, horrifying and beyond reprehensible' and saying there is 'no defense for anyone who preys on children,' with 'no room in our party for these types of charges.'
Sheriff's statement on the case
May 16, 2026
Sheriff John Feyen stated, 'Children are not property to be bought or sold. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and we won’t tolerate it in Larimer County. I hope this operation sends a strong message. It doesn’t matter who you are, if you try to hurt kids in our community, you will be held accountable.'
Abdur-Rahmaan charged and bond issued
May 16, 2026
Larimer County Court charged Ismaaeel Abdur-Rahmaan with Soliciting a Child Prostitute (F3), Internet Luring of a Child (F4), Cybercrime - Soliciting to Arrange a Minor Prostitute (F5), and Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child (F5). The court issued a $7,500 cash-only bond.
Arrests in Larimer County sting targeting child sexual exploitation
May 14, 2026
In Larimer County, Hunter Rivera, chair of the Weld County Republicans, and Ismaaeel Abdur-Rahmaan, 22, of Fort Collins, were arrested as part of an operation in which investigators posed as minors offering sexual acts for sale online. Several people responded to the listings, and two arrived at the agreed-upon location to purchase sex from a minor; both were arrested and booked into the Larimer County Jail.