3 Charged In Child Predator Undercover Sting Operation In North Haven: PD

NORTH HAVEN, CT — Three men have been arrested in connection with “Operation Silent Night” on child sexual exploitation-related charges, according to North Haven police.

Police said North Haven detectives, in collaboration with the FBI's New Haven Field Office and Albany Field Office, on Dec. 19 “successfully concluded an undercover operation designed to identify and apprehend individuals attempting to sexually exploit minors online.”

“Following several hours of intensive operations, three individuals were taken into custody on serious charges related to child sexual predation,” North Haven police wrote in a post on Facebook.

Kenneth Richardson, 30, of Bridgeport, was arrested and charged with criminal attempt to commit second-degree sexual assault, risk of injury to a minor, enticing a minor, possession of heroin, and possession with intent to sell. He was held in lieu of a $250,000 bond.

Christian Manuel Espinosa, 33, of New Haven, was arrested and charged with criminal attempt to commit second-degree sexual assault, risk of injury to a minor, and enticing a minor. He was held in lieu of a $200,000 bond.

Shawn Stearns, 44, of East Haven, was arrested and charged with criminal attempt to commit second-degree sexual assault, risk of injury to a minor, enticing a minor, and possession of a controlled substance. He was held in lieu of a $200,000 bond.

“The North Haven Police Department remains unwavering in its commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our community's youth,” police wrote. “We will continue to work tirelessly with our federal and local partners to hold accountable those who prey on the most vulnerable members of our society.”