Five Arrested in Major Operation Targeting Crimes Against Children

In a joint effort led by the Covington Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division, five men have been arrested for crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. The operation, carried out with the support of the CPD Special Response Team, Department of Homeland Security, United States Secret Service, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Franklinton Police Department, resulted in the following arrests:

• Howard Pitre (DOB: 11/21/1999) for Attempted Production of Pornography Involving Juveniles,  Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Purposes

• David Dykes (DOB: 12/27/1969) for Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Purposes

• Ryan Honea (DOB: 01/04/1989) for Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles,  Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS

• Randy Hinton (DOB: 11/15/1979) for • Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Purposes, • Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule II CDS

• Jose Escalante (DOB: 08/28/1985) for Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Purposes

• Additionally, Allen Tate Jr. (DOB: 05/20/1995) was arrested this week in a separate case involving heinous crimes against children, including first-degree rape and molestation.

All suspects have been booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail and await prosecution. 

Chief Michael Ferrell stated, “This operation’s success reflects the dedication of our investigators and strong partnerships in safeguarding the most vulnerable members of our community. Our commitment to protecting children remains our highest priority.”

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.