Man indicted following undercover prostitution operation in Taylor County

Man indicted following undercover prostitution operation in Taylor County ABILENE, Texas — A Taylor County grand jury has indicted a man accused of attempting to pay for sex during an undercover prostitution operation conducted by law enforcement earlier this year. According to court documents, Gilbert Lara was indicted following an investigation that stemmed from a Texas Department of Public Safety prostitution operation on Feb. 25, 2026. RELATED | 11 Arrested in Abilene Prostitution, Online Solicitation Sting The documents state a detective was working undercover and posing online as an adult female prostitute. Investigators said Lara contacted the undercover account through Reddit seeking sex in exchange for money. Court documents allege that after a time and meeting location were arranged, Lara sent a nude photograph and requested one in return. Authorities said officers then went to the agreed-upon location and waited for Lara to arrive. According to the documents, Lara arrived at the meeting location in a white Hyundai sedan and was taken into custody. RELATED | Man indicted after allegedly agreeing to pay for sex in Taylor County sting After being advised of his rights, a Detective asked Lara if he understood why he was being arrested, the document states. Investigators allege Lara responded that he was going to pay the woman for sex. The documents states the incident occurred in Taylor County and alleges that Lara knowingly offered a fee for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct, specifically sexual intercourse.