FBI-Led Texas Operation Rescues 109 Children, Arrests 244 Predators

Law enforcement agencies across multiple states recently conducted major operations targeting online child predators, leading to significant arrests and rescues. In Huntsville, Alabama, ten men were arrested following a sting operation where undercover officers posed as minors on online platforms, resulting in charges including human trafficking and solicitation of a child. Concurrently, in Texas, Operation Soteria Shield—a monthlong coordinated effort involving over 70 agencies—led to the arrest of 244 alleged child sex offenders and the rescue of 109 children. FBI officials emphasized the ongoing commitment to removing predators from communities and protecting vulnerable children, highlighting the extensive collaboration between federal, state, and local entities. The operations also yielded large amounts of digital evidence, which may facilitate further arrests and victim identification. Law enforcement leaders underscored the pervasive and damaging nature of online child exploitation, calling for continued vigilance and cooperation to combat these crimes.