9 arrested in Clovis undercover operation targeting human trafficking, child predators
· The Fresno BeeKey Takeaways
Key Takeaways
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Clovis police arrested nine suspects in a two-day human trafficking sting.
- A suspect led a pursuit that ended in a five-vehicle crash at Shields and Armstrong.
- Detectives seek 36-year-old Kyle Riechel of Fresno on several felony charges.
Nine suspects were arrested during a two-day undercover operation last week in Clovis targeting human traffickers and child predators.
Seven of the nine suspects were arrested without incident Friday and Saturday at various locations throughout Clovis, according to police.
One suspect failed to stop for officers, prompting a pursuit that ended at Shields and Armstrong avenues, where a five-vehicle collision occurred. Three adults reported pain and received medical care at the scene. An infant was taken to a hospital as a precaution, police said.
The suspect fled the scene on foot but was taken into custody a short distance away by Clovis police. The Fresno Police Department investigated the collision because it occurred within its jurisdiction.
Another suspect evaded officers and remains wanted, police said. Detectives are searching for 36-year-old Kyle Riechel of Fresno, who is wanted on several felony charges.
Anyone with information about Riechel’s whereabouts can remain anonymous by calling Valley Crime Stoppers at 559-498-7867 or submitting a tip through the police department’s mobile app.
The nine arrested suspects identified by police are Fernando Garza, 34, of Fresno; William Vallejo, 29, of Fresno; Jordan Smith, 23, of Fresno; Aaron Gray, 24, of Fresno; Alize Gonzalez, 24, of Fresno; Letrice Moton, 29, of Fresno; Celestina Bejaran, 28, of Fresno; David Martinez, 48, of Madera; and Christian Scott, 31, of Clovis.
During the operation, several human trafficking victims were connected with Breaking the Chains representatives at the scene to receive assistance.
Police said confidential help is available for people experiencing human trafficking through law enforcement and local nonprofit organizations. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, contact Clovis police at 559-324-2800. Breaking the Chains can be reached at 559-492-1566.
This story was originally published October 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM with the headline "9 arrested in Clovis undercover operation targeting human trafficking, child predators."