Federal Arrest of an El Paso Man for Interstate Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity

On December 6, 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation arrested 57-year-old Travis Wayne Vavra from El Paso, Texas. Vavra has been charged by a federal criminal complaint filed today with one count of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(a)—Interstate Transportation of Minors with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity.

In 2015, Vavra allegedly provided individuals with a flyer advertising free trips across the country for children. A similar flyer appeared on social media channels this past weekend. According to the criminal complaint, over the past five years, Vavra transported a minor victim from Texas to states throughout the Southwest and Midwest with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation El Paso Division’s Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force is investigating this case and seeks the public’s help in identifying other potential victims. The public is encouraged to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 915-832-5000 if they have any information relating to the case.

In connection with the investigation, Special Agent in Charge Luis Quesada said, “People that prey upon the innocence of our children will be held accountable for their actions.”

Upon conviction, Vavra faces between 10 years to life in federal prison.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered as evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.