PHOENIX — Arizona law enforcement agencies arrested 72 alleged child predators in a statewide crackdown called Operation Safe Online Summer in April.
Authorities announced the arrests in a Wednesday news conference that discussed the various investigative techniques they used to protect children.
“Let this be a warning,” Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said during the conference. “We will find you and we will prosecute you and we will protect our kids.”
Scope of Operation Safe Online Summer
It was a massive operation led by Phoenix Police Department and the Arizona Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Investigators with 23 agencies including state police, the FBI’s Arizona division and police departments in Tucson and metro Phoenix, took part in the initiative.
They considered nearly 150 tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. They also:
- Authored 243 search warrants.
- Identified 25 victims being exploited.
- Examined more than 1,000 devices.
Mayes also said social media companies need to do more to protect children.
Maricopa County attorney talks about ways to thwart child predators
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell echoed that sentiment, adding that parents should educate their children about digital dangers.
Her office’s website has various resources for families, such as the “Report, don’t repost” campaign.
Mitchell said it’s also important for parents to create a safe and supportive environment so children feel comfortable discussing any encounters they may have with potential predators.
“Should be someone who will stay calm when a child comes to them,” Mitchell said. “It’s someone who will listen without judgement and then help the child by reporting it to the police.”
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