An FBI agent has been charged with sexually assaulting two women in Maryland after he approached them via social media with promises of free tattoos and modeling work. Eduardo Valdivia, 40, of Gaithersburg, Maryland, faces felony and misdemeanor charges, including two counts of second-degree rape, following incidents that occurred in May and September of 2024.
The victims, both women in their 20s, didn’t know Valdivia, who went by nicknames like “Lalo Brown” and “Al Boogie,” was an FBI agent when he contacted them through Instagram. Police say he used an account linked to a tattoo parlor in Gaithersburg to lure women with promises of modeling contracts. Once in contact, Valdivia allegedly sexually assaulted him during a photo shoot at a tattoo studio and hotel.
Both women told police they feared more harm if they resisted or tried to leave, according to police affidavits. Valdivia also reportedly threatened legal action if they did not return for additional modeling sessions.
Valdivia’s defense attorney, Robert Boncib, argued that the interaction was consensual. “This behavior won’t get you the first pew in church,” Bonsib said, “but you have to be realistic about the nature of what’s going on. This was not criminal behavior. “
Montgomery County Assistant Police Chief Nicholas Augustine praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, suggesting their actions prevent others from suffering similar attacks. “I thank the victims who came forward. They have now stopped this contact in our community,” he said.
The FBI has suspended Valdivia from his duties pending the outcome of the investigation. “The FBI takes allegations of criminal violations and misconduct very seriously,” a spokeswoman said.
During the court hearing, it was revealed that a third potential victim had already come forward. Valdivia was ordered to remain in jail without bond because he is considered a danger to the community.
In a separate case, Valdivia was previously indicted and acquitted of attempted second-degree murder and other charges in connection with a December 2020 shooting incident on a Metro train near Washington, DC.
