The FBI is looking for potential victims after announcing that a former park ranger targeted individuals in exchange for money or sex.
Joey Lamar Ellis is believed to have abused his position as a park ranger at Cullen, Memorial and Cleveland parks in Houston.
FBI investigators charged the 33-year-old with several felonies for luring and robbing men at various parks, according to a post on the agency’s social media account.
Ellis worked for the city of Houston when he allegedly made victims believe he was a law enforcement officer. Federal officials said he forced victims to pay money or sexually assaulted them in exchange for allowing them to leave the park.
According to Ellis’ employment records, he began working as a park ranger in 2019. Investigators believe there could be victims from 2019 to the present. Potential victims are asked to come forward and contact the FBI.
Officials noted that members of the LGBTQIA+ community may have been targeted by Ellis.
Victims can fill out a form on the FBI’s website. They may be eligible for services and rights under federal or state law. Ellis was charged with felony official oppression by the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation is ongoing.