The New Rochelle Police Department announces the arrest of Marco A Chavez, a 31-year-old resident of New Rochelle, by members of the Criminal Investigations Division. The arrest follows a thorough investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct involving a minor, culminating in a successful sting operation on March 15, 2025.
The investigation began on February 25, 2025, when a 16-year-old female and her mother filed a complaint with the New Rochelle Police Department. The complainants alleged that Mr. Chavez had sent inappropriate text messages to the minor. Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division reviewed evidence that indicated Mr. Chavez was attempting to groom the victim for sexual activity.
Detectives then employed a department-issued cellular phone to engage in communication with Mr. Chavez, posing as the 16-year-old. Over the course of several exchanges, the suspect’s messages became increasingly sexual in nature, providing critical evidence of his intent. Based on this communication, detectives organized a sting operation to apprehend the suspect.
Mr. Chavez agreed to meet the individual he believed to be the minor at a local park. On March 15, 2025, at approximately 9:20 p.m., Mr. Chavez arrived at the designated location via taxi and was immediately taken into custody. A search of his person revealed cocaine, alcohol, and condoms, further compounding the severity of his actions.
The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with additional information is urged to contact the New Rochelle Police Department at 914-654-2300.
ARRESTED: Marco A. Chavez, 31 years of age, of New Rochelle
CHARGES:
263.05 Attempted Use of a Child in a Sexual Performance – D Felony
235.22 Disseminating Indecent Material to a Minor in the First Degree – D Felony
130.25 Attempted Rape in the Third Degree – A Misdemeanor
220.06 Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree – D Felony
