Full Breakdown
Weld County GOP Chair Arrested in Child Predator Sting
5/17/2026, 4:37:03 AM
Arrest and Charges
On Thursday, May 15, 2026, 24-year-old Hunter Rivera, chair of the Weld County Republican Party, was arrested by the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office on four felony counts: soliciting a child prostitute, internet luring of a child, soliciting to arrange a minor prostitute, and attempted sexual assault on a child. He was booked on a $6,500 cash-only bond.
Sting Operation Background
The arrest stemmed from an undercover sting in which deputies posed as minors offering sexual acts on local websites and forums. “Several dozen” respondents replied, and two men—Rivera and 23-year-old Ismaaeel Abdur-Rahmaan—met officers at an agreed location and were arrested.
Timeline
Rivera was arrested on May 15; state legislators called for his resignation on May 16; he resigned on May 17, and his first court appearance is set for May 21.
Political and Law-Enforcement Reactions
State House and Senate Republicans described the charges as extremely serious and called for Rivera’s removal. The Weld County GOP called the allegations deeply serious and stressed the need for due process. Sheriff John Feyen warned that human trafficking is modern-day slavery and said the operation was intended to send a strong message, adding that anyone who tries to hurt children will be held accountable. Rep. Lauren Boebert called the accusations vile and indefensible and urged immediate action.
Criticism and Calls for Resignation
All Republican leaders urged Rivera to step down, emphasizing a “zero tolerance” stance on child exploitation. The rapid acceptance of his resignation and appointment of an interim chair aim to protect the party’s reputation. Rivera has not responded.
Data & Statistics
Charges: four felonies. Bond: $6,500 cash-only. “Several dozen” people responded to the online listings. Co-suspect: Ismaaeel Abdur-Rahmaan, also charged.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree on the four charges and bond amount. Minor differences appear in the spelling of the co-suspect’s name and whether Rivera’s earlier removal from the state GOP executive committee was noted. No details on victims or broader sting outcomes are provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Colorado House and Senate Republicans also release a statement about the arrest: These charges are sickening, horrifying, and beyond reprehensible.” — Colorado Senate Republicans
- “Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, and we won’t tolerate it in Larimer County. I hope this operation sends a strong message,” — Sheriff John Feyen
- “Children are not property to be bought or sold,” — Sheriff John Feyen
- “These allegations are vile and indefensible. I pray to God there are not real victims out there. I am angry and disgusted,” — Rep. Lauren Boebert
What’s Next
Rivera’s first court appearance is scheduled for May 21. The Weld County GOP will hold a special election to select a permanent chair, while the sheriff’s office continues its investigation, which could identify additional suspects.
