Two Bemidji Men Caught In Child Prostitution Sting

We’ve told you about several prostitution stings around our region in recent weeks. Now, Bemidji Police have added a twist to that operation, by targeting the darkest side of sex trafficking, child prostitution.

Two Bemidji men, 52 year old Joseph Cook and 61-year old Jerry Hemstad each face a felony charge of: “Engage in Electronic Communication Relating or Describing Sexual Conduct with Child”.

Bemidji Police are trying to send a clear message to men who would support the prostitution of children.

Mike Mastin, Chief of Police: “Our focus in this operation was to capture those that wish to do harm to children.”

Police placed an ad on an online escort service, with an undercover officers posing as 15 and 18 year old females.