FBI task forces across Texas have arrested nearly 250 suspects and rescued more than 100 children in a massive child exploitation crackdown that culminated in April 2025 after a decade-long investigation.
Known as Operation Soteria Shield, the initiative targeted online child sexual exploitation and led to the seizure of terabytes of illicit digital content from electronic devices used in these crimes, the FBI announced in a press release. The data will undergo forensic analysis, and authorities expect more arrests as the investigation continues.
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Over 70 law enforcement agencies were involved in the operation, including:
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North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force
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North Texas Child Exploitation Task Force
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FBI Dallas Division
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National Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force
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Police departments from Dallas, Plano, Wylie, and Garland
“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.”
According to the Austin-American Statesman, 244 individuals were arrested on charges related to child sex crimes, and 109 children were rescued.
“Operation Soteria Shield was a massive team effort and a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite around one clear mission: protecting our kids and holding offenders accountable,” said Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux.
“I am proud that the Dallas Police Department is the lead agency for the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and am grateful for the many, many agencies who contributed to this successful operation.”
Plano Police Chief Ed Drain emphasized the widespread and devastating impact of online exploitation:
“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,” Drain said.
“Operation Soteria Shield brought together an unprecedented level of collaboration and resolve to confront this crisis head-on. Through this operation, we not only rescued children from unimaginable abuse, but we also sent a clear message: those who seek to harm our children online will be found and brought to justice. Our work is far from over, but this effort has made our communities safer and brought hope to those who need it most.”
This monumental effort was the result of ten years of investigation, illustrating both the scale of the problem and the determination of law enforcement to dismantle these criminal networks and protect vulnerable children.
