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Bondsman used code words to demand sex acts for bail

Posted at 3:18 PM, Sep 08, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-08 15:18:49-04

HENRICO COUNTY, Va., -- A bondsman accused of offering bond in exchange for sexual favors from inmates used code words and phrases over recorded jailhouse phone conversations, according to detectives.

The bond hearing appeal for 60-year-old Vladimir Tarabay, who worked at Fast Bail Bonding, was Thursday at Henrico County Circuit Court.

The judge denied his bond saying he believed Tarabay was a risk to the public.

bailbondsman

During court, prosecutors played several jailhouse phone conversations between Tarabay and female inmates.

Henrico County Police Detective Joseph Wechsler testified the bondsman used the code phrases “to work something out” and “doing paperwork at the office” to make bond arrangements in exchange for sex.

In one call, Tarabay told one woman, “I’ll put you back into jail if you lie to me.”

Tarabay’s phone number would often be passed around in the female jail pod if they didn’t have money to make bail, according to the detective.

Wechsler said 11 victims total have come forward all with similar and corroborating stories since 2014.

Prosecutors revealed more charges against the man including sodomy and violation of bond statute.

He’s also been charged with rape in Richmond city and extortion and solicitation of prostitution in Henrico County.

Prosecutors believe that there are more cases in Richmond, Chesterfield and Prince George.

Tarabay’s attorney, Craig Cooley, said many of his client’s family members were inside the courtroom.

He said Tarabay was not a flight risk since he has a family, businesses, and significant ties to the area.

But, the Commonwealth said, "he has every incentive to leave."

The Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office is asking potential victims to call their office at 804-501-5365.

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