Operation Soteria Shield: 109 Children Rescued, 244 Arrested in Major Child Exploitation Crackdown
June 15, 2025
Authorities seized extensive digital evidence, including terabytes of illicit data from electronic devices, which are currently undergoing forensic analysis to potentially lead to further arrests and additional victim identifications.
The arrests included individuals from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the widespread nature of child exploitation.
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children played a crucial role in providing intelligence and case coordination support for the operation.
Investigators focused on identifying victims and apprehending offenders engaged in the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Plano Police Chief Ed Drain described online child exploitation as a pervasive crime that affects all communities and leaves lasting damage on victims.
The rescued children were found in various locations, with some being returned to their families and others placed in protective custody.
Operation Soteria Shield, a significant child exploitation initiative, resulted in the rescue of 109 children and the arrest of 244 offenders across the United States, as reported by the FBI on June 15, 2025.
This operation involved collaboration among over 70 Texas law enforcement agencies, including local police departments and federal agencies, throughout April 2025.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock emphasized the operation's dual goals of rescuing children and holding child predators accountable for their actions.
The FBI has stressed the importance of community awareness and prevention efforts in combatting child exploitation.
Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux highlighted the operation as a powerful reminder of the collective capability of law enforcement agencies in addressing child exploitation.
This operation is part of the FBI's ongoing efforts to dismantle networks that exploit vulnerable children.
Summary based on 6 sources
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https://www.wbtv.com • Jun 15, 2025
109 children rescued, 244 arrested in child exploitation sting, FBI says
WBTV • Jun 15, 2025
109 children rescued, 244 arrested in child exploitation sting, FBI says
WDBJ • Jun 15, 2025
109 children rescued, 244 arrested in child exploitation sting, FBI says