244 Arrested and 109 children rescued in child exploitation sting

More than 100 children were rescued, and nearly 250 people were arrested in a child exploitation sting, according to the FBI.

More than 70 Texas law enforcement agencies worked together with the FBI throughout April in Operation Soteria Shield.

Investigators identified victims and apprehended offenders engaging in the production, distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material.

A total of 109 children were rescued and 244 offenders were arrested. Investigators seized extensive volumes of digital evidence, including terabytes of illicit data stored on electronic devices that were used in the commission of these crimes. These devices are undergoing forensic analysis and may lead to further arrests and the identification of additional victims.

“Operation Soteria Shield brought together over 70 agencies from across the state of Texas, including police departments, federal agencies, state and federal prosecutors, children’s advocacy centers, and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. We had a common goal, which was to rescue children from abuse and exploitation,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock. “This was not an easy operation, but a necessary one. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to protect the children in our communities, and we will hold child predators accountable for their crimes.”

Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux said Operation Soteria Shield is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together.

Plano Police Chief Ed Drain said, “Online exploitation of children is one of the most insidious crimes we face as a society.”

“It reaches into every community, crosses every boundary, and leaves lasting harm on its youngest victims,” he said.

Analysts with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children also provided “vital intelligence and case coordination” that helped the operation.