A supervisory FBI special agent, Eduardo Valdivia, 40, from Gaithersburg, has been arrested in connection to a series of disturbing sexual assaults at his tattoo shop, DC Fine Line Tattoos, located in Montgomery County. Valdivia faces serious charges, including six counts of second-degree rape, two counts of fourth-degree sexual offense, and eight counts of second-degree assault.
Authorities claim Valdivia lured women into his tattoo studio under the pretense of offering free tattoos and lucrative modeling contracts. The FBI agent, who used the alias “Lalo Brown” on Instagram, is accused of exploiting these women for sexual assault under the guise of a professional photoshoot for his fake modeling agency, “Exeter Models.”
The first victim came forward in October 2024, detailing how after receiving a free tattoo from Valdivia, she was presented with a modeling contract. During a follow-up visit, she was assaulted by Valdivia in what was meant to be a photoshoot. The assault continued when the victim was lured to a Marriott Courtyard under the promise of finalizing her modeling contract.
A second victim shared a similar account in November, reporting that after receiving a free tattoo, she was coerced into a photoshoot where Valdivia allegedly assaulted her.
Valdivia’s role as a federal agent and tattoo artist raises serious concerns about the abuse of power and trust. Operating the tattoo studio on Washingtonian Boulevard, he portrayed himself as a professional artist and entrepreneur while using his position to target vulnerable women.
Montgomery County Police announced Valdivia’s arrest on Tuesday, with Assistant Chief Nicholas Augustine revealing that a third victim came forward shortly after a news conference about the case. The court ruled that Valdivia be held without bond, citing concerns that he is a threat to the community and a flight risk. Valdivia is scheduled to return to court on December 20.
Detectives are still investigating the case and suspect there may be additional victims who have yet to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Special Victims Investigations Division at (240) 773-5400.
