A former deputy chief of the Reno Police Department has been arrested following a multi-agency operation targeting individuals allegedly attempting to engage in illegal sexual activity with minors.
According to law enforcement statements, Tom Robinson, 52, was among 13 individuals arrested during a two-day operation conducted by the Regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) unit on October 15–16, 2025, in Reno.
Authorities allege that suspects arranged meetings online with individuals they believed to be minors. Upon arrival at a residence in northwest Reno, they were met by undercover law enforcement personnel.
Charges and Allegations
Robinson has been charged with:
- Solicitation of a minor for prostitution (reported as a 17-year-old)
- Attempted child abuse for sexual exploitation
Law enforcement officials have not publicly detailed the full scope of evidence supporting the charges. All charges are allegations, and Robinson is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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Scope of the HEAT Operation
The Regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) unit stated that the operation was designed to identify individuals attempting to exploit minors and vulnerable persons.
According to a press release attributed to RPD spokesperson Chris Johnson, the operation targeted:
- Adults attempting to purchase sex from minors
- Individuals engaged in the exploitation of minors and adults
- Online communications used to arrange illicit encounters
Authorities reported that additional charges against other individuals arrested in the operation include:
- Soliciting adults and minors for prostitution
- Attempted kidnapping
- Luring minors, including individuals reportedly as young as 13
- Attempting to furnish controlled substances to minors
- Attempted sexual assault involving children
Law enforcement stated that in some cases, suspects believed they were communicating with individuals as young as nine years old. These communications were conducted by undercover officers.
Law Enforcement Statements
In a public release, RPD spokesperson Chris Johnson stated:
- “The goal of the operation was to identify and apprehend adults attempting to prey on and purchase sex from minors…”
- Officials expressed concern that the alleged behavior may not have been isolated incidents
- The HEAT unit described such offenders as posing significant risk due to the harm inflicted on vulnerable individuals
Authorities also emphasized the importance of parental awareness of children’s online activity.
Background on the Suspect
According to statements from the Reno Police Department:
- Robinson retired in January 2024 after approximately 28 years of service
- He previously served in command staff roles, including deputy chief
- His assignments included gang enforcement, internal affairs, and SWAT supervision
The department confirmed that Robinson is no longer employed by the agency.
The investigation is being handled by the Washoe County School District Police Department as part of the HEAT team.
Reporting and Public Safety Information
Authorities encourage the public to report suspected exploitation or trafficking activity. Information can be submitted through:
- HEAT Unit tip line: 775-334-2176
- Secret Witness (anonymous): 775-322-4900 or secretwitness.com
Law enforcement also advises parents and guardians to monitor children’s online activity and discuss internet safety risks.
Current Status
As of the latest available update:
- Tom Robinson has been arrested and formally charged
- The investigation remains active and ongoing
- No court disposition or trial outcome has been reported
- Additional updates may follow as the case progresses
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who conducted the operation?
The operation was conducted by the Regional Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEAT) unit, a multi-agency task force.
Was an actual minor involved?
No. Authorities state that suspects communicated with undercover officers posing as minors.
Is the suspect still employed by the Reno Police Department?
No. Officials confirmed that Robinson retired in January 2024 and is no longer employed.
What are the charges based on?
Charges are based on alleged online communications and actions taken by suspects who arranged meetings with individuals they believed to be minors.
What happens next in the case?
The case will proceed through the criminal justice process, including potential court hearings. Outcomes have not yet been determined.
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