A U.S. Army specialist from Ponce, Puerto Rico, has been arrested on charges related to alleged child exploitation activities. Derek Orengo Delgado, 24, was taken into custody by special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on May 8.
The arrest followed a federal grand jury's indictment of Orengo Delgado on May 7. He faces five counts including coercion and enticement of a minor, transportation of a minor for criminal sexual activity, sexual exploitation of children, receipt of child exploitation material, and transfer of obscene material to a minor.
Court documents allege that in January 2025, Orengo Delgado used a cellphone and online platforms to persuade and coerce a 15-year-old female to engage in sexual activities and create visual depictions of such conduct. From January 11 to January 12, he is accused of transporting the minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity. During this time, he allegedly produced and transmitted sexually explicit content using his computer and received child pornography. He also reportedly transferred obscene material to someone under the age of 16.
Rebecca González-Ramos, Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Juan, stated: "No child should be deceived by a public servant whose pledge is to defend and protect with honor and integrity. This individual does not represent the honorable members of the U.S. Army." She emphasized the agency's commitment to preventing crimes against children.
The case is being prosecuted by Timothy Henwood, Chief of the Criminal Division, alongside Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenifer Hernández-Vega from the Crimes Against Children Unit.
An indictment serves as an allegation only; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
For further details about HSI's efforts against child exploitation or to report suspicious activities, individuals can visit Know2Protect.gov or contact local authorities.
