A Houston police lieutenant is now under stricter bond conditions after appearing in court on charges of online solicitation of a minor.
Prosecutors say 50-year-old Quoc Viet Ngo believed he was communicating online with a 15-year-old girl, who was actually an undercover detective. Investigators say the case began as part of an operation targeting online predators.
Ngo appeared in court as a judge approved new restrictions to his bond. He is now barred from accessing the internet and is limited to using a phone equipped with software that blocks online activity.
Authorities say the investigation was led by the Harris County Precinct One Constable’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, working alongside a regional task force.
According to investigators, Ngo allegedly sent sexually explicit images and later showed up at a home in an unmarked Houston Police Department vehicle, expecting to meet the teen for sexual activity. Deputies say condoms, alcohol, and his service belt were found inside the vehicle. When he was taken into custody, officers used his own handcuffs to arrest him.
Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen said, “Lt. Ngo was sworn to protect the very people that he was targeting.”
Ngo was previously featured in a 2018 KPRC 2 community story about “Boots for Cops,” a program that provides custom western boots to law enforcement officers.
If convicted, Ngo could face up to 20 years in prison. He has since been relieved of duty.
His next court appearance is scheduled for May 21.