Israeli Official Arrested in Las Vegas Child Sex Sting, Prompting Diplomatic Questions

Las Vegas, Nevada – Tom Alexandrovich, an Israeli government official, was arrested in Las Vegas as part of an undercover child sex sting operation, facing charges of luring a child with a computer for a sex act. Alexandrovich, identified as a senior figure within Israel's National Cyber Directorate, has since been released on $10,000 bail and returned to Israel, sparking controversy and questions regarding his prompt departure.

The arrest occurred during a multi-agency sting operation targeting online predators, where Alexandrovich allegedly solicited what he believed to be a 15-year-old girl for sex. Police reports indicate he was in Las Vegas to attend the Black Hat USA 2025 cybersecurity conference when he was apprehended. He reportedly told police he had met with the FBI and had a future meeting scheduled with the NSA, immediately identifying himself as an employee of the Israeli government.

Upon his arrest, Alexandrovich repeatedly emphasized his need to arrange his flight back to Israel and contact his family or the Israeli embassy. The swift release on bail, without an appearance before a judge, allowed him to return to Israel before formal charges were filed, raising concerns about potential preferential treatment.

Initial statements from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office claimed they were unaware of Alexandrovich's arrest, stating he was merely "questioned by American authorities" and "returned to Israel as scheduled." However, the Israel National Cyber Directorate later acknowledged his arrest and confirmed he is currently on leave by "mutual decision." The U.S. State Department has denied intervening in his release, asserting he did not claim diplomatic immunity.

Under Nevada law, luring a child with a computer for a sex act is a felony carrying a potential sentence of one to ten years in prison. The circumstances of Alexandrovich's release, contrasted with other suspects in the same sting who faced stricter bail conditions or remained in custody, have fueled public debate and scrutiny over the handling of the case. The documents detailing Alexandrovich's involvement are expected to be made public soon.