The Department of Justice has revealed the results of Operation Restore Justice, a significant nationwide initiative targeting child sex offenders. This operation led to the arrest of 205 individuals involved in child sexual abuse offenses and resulted in the rescue of several children. The operation was carried out over five days by all 55 FBI field offices, alongside the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section within the Department’s Criminal Division and various United States Attorney’s Offices.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the department's commitment to protecting victims, stating, "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 also expressed gratitude for the efforts of the FBI and their partners during this operation.
FBI Director Kash Patel reinforced this commitment by saying, "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."
In Illinois' Central District, three individuals were charged as part of this operation. Mark Peterson from Pekin was charged with attempted enticement of a minor after allegedly trying to meet a ten-year-old for sexual activity. Dalton Trader from Williamsville faced charges for possession of child pornography following a search that uncovered multiple videos on his computer. James Yeager from Springfield was similarly charged after images were found on a micro-SD drive at his residence.
These cases were investigated by various law enforcement agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Springfield Field Office. Acting U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Gilmore expressed appreciation for these collaborative efforts which have contributed to community safety.
Special Agent Christopher Johnson from FBI Springfield stated there would be "zero tolerance" for crimes against children, emphasizing their united mission with community advocates to protect children.
Operation Restore Justice also highlighted cases across other states involving serious allegations such as production and distribution of child sexual abuse material, online enticement, transportation of minors for sex, and trafficking.
This initiative aligns with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed in April, reflecting ongoing efforts by federal authorities like Project Safe Childhood aimed at combating child exploitation since its inception in 2006.
For more information or to report suspected exploitation cases involving children, resources are available through hotlines such as NCMEC's 1-800-THE-LOST or FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).
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