Larimer County investigators recently arrested three men for trying to buy sex from children.

Earlier this week, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation targeting child predators. Investigators posed as minors selling sexual acts on local websites and forums. Over 100 people responded to the listings, and three men arrived at an agreed-upon location to buy sex. They were met by deputies who arrested and booked the men into the Larimer County Jail. These suspects face the following charges:

Philip Robert Christensen (DOB 03/29/83) of Wellington

• Soliciting a Child Prostitute (F3)
• Internet Luring of a Child (F4)
• Cybercrime - Soliciting to Arrange a Minor Prostitute (F5)
• Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child (F5)

Christensen was issued a $30,000 cash/surety bond by the Larimer County Court.

Vatsal Gupta (DOB 01/12/91) of Windsor

• Soliciting a Child Prostitute (F3)
• Internet Luring of a Child (F4)
• Cybercrime - Soliciting to Arrange a Minor Prostitute (F5)
• Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child (F5)

Gupta was issued a $30,000 cash/surety bond by the Larimer County Court.

Jose Urritia (DOB 09/21/00) of Grand Junction

• Soliciting a Child Prostitute (F3)
• Internet Luring of a Child (F4)
• Cybercrime - Soliciting to Arrange a Minor Prostitute (F5)
• Attempted Sexual Assault on a Child (F5)

Urritia was issued a $30,000 cash/surety bond by the Larimer County Court.

“Trying to buy sex from a prostituted child is inexcusable,” said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen. “These operations shine a light on the depravity that exists – even in safe communities like ours. Our investigators will continue working to stop predators from harming our children.”

Booking photos are attached. LCSO would like to thank the Northern Colorado Drug Task Force and the District Attorney's Office for their assistance during this operation.

These charges are merely an accusation, and defendants are presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.