The Department of Justice has announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and arresting alleged child sexual abuse offenders. The operation led to the arrest of 205 individuals over five days, involving all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices across the country.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, "The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us." She expressed gratitude for the FBI's efforts and emphasized her directive to prosecutors not to negotiate.
FBI Director Kash Patel remarked on the operation's success: "Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us." He added that Operation Restore Justice demonstrates that no predator is beyond reach.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky Paul McCaffrey highlighted the impact of these offenses: “Child exploitation offenses inflict lasting harm on the most vulnerable members of our society.” He reiterated that prosecuting such offenses remains a top priority.
In Kentucky alone, nine defendants face charges related to child exploitation. These include Jason Back charged with online enticement of a minor; Jesus Chavez facing multiple counts related to producing child pornography; Jordan A. Cobb charged with online enticement and cyberstalking; Austin Hawk accused of transporting a minor for sexual activity; Nathan Smith charged with distribution and possession of child pornography; Michael Moon facing charges for receiving and possessing child pornography; Timothy Ray Dale charged with production and possession of child pornography; Finley Wooton accused of attempted production.
These arrests coincide with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed in April, reinforcing efforts to protect children. The Department continues its commitment through Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched in May 2006 focusing on combating child sexual exploitation via federal collaboration.
The public is encouraged to report suspected exploitation through various channels including the FBI tipline or local field offices. An indictment is merely an allegation, as defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.