The Department of Justice has announced the outcomes of Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide effort aimed at identifying and apprehending child sex predators. The operation led to the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 offenders across the United States. This initiative was conducted over five days by all 55 FBI field offices, along with the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide.
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 to the FBI and its partners for their work on this operation.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that "Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten." He highlighted the collaboration between federal, state, and local partners in sending a clear message against those who exploit children.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft condemned child sex offenders as a "moral disgrace" and reaffirmed commitment to eradicating such crimes through collaborative efforts with law enforcement partners.
In Illinois, four individuals face federal charges related to child sexual exploitation offenses. Ryan G. Jones from Danville is charged with producing child pornography involving an 8-year-old minor. Trevor W. Yokley from Vandalia faces charges for attempting to entice a minor. Jared K. Galbraith from Belleville is charged with sexual exploitation of children and transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Christopher A. Geisen from Pensacola is facing charges related to transporting child pornography.
Additionally, six individuals were arrested by the Illinois State Police Division during a focused operation in Madison County aimed at identifying those seeking sex acts with minors.
Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine stated, “Protecting children against predators is a key priority,” expressing gratitude for partnerships aiding this essential work.
Across other parts of the country, various arrests have been made involving different allegations such as production, distribution, possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement, transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking.
This operation coincides with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed in April by highlighting ongoing efforts to combat these crimes through Project Safe Childhood—a DOJ initiative launched in May 2006 focusing on combating child sexual exploitation via internet channels while rescuing victims involved.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood or reporting suspected exploitation cases can contact relevant authorities including NCMEC's hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST or FBI's tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).