Arkansas State Police made 42 arrests related to child sexual abuse material and failure to comply with registration requirements during Operation Cyber Highway Safety Check.
The special operation took place between March 10 and the end of May in an effort to identify and stop sexual predators before the school year ends and summer or spring break kicks off.
“Unfortunately, children are often alone and most vulnerable during the summer,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Starting in March, our ICAC Task Force officers stepped up efforts to keep our kids safe by going after individuals trying to exploit them. Our mission is to investigate, prosecute, and prevent internet crimes against children, and to make Arkansas a safe place for its youngest citizens.”
According to reports, officers executed 178 search warrants and conducted over 1,600 home visits with registered sex offenders. 160 investigations were initiated, and 63 cases were submitted for prosecution to state and federal courts.
Among those, 45 cases were accepted for grand jury indictments. In two cases that involved child sex trafficking, arrests were made, and invest
Nine of the reported arrests were for hands-on offenses. Additionally, officers rescued five children from ongoing sexual abuse and identified 22 children as new victims.
“This statewide operation has been the most successful in the task force’s history,” said Major Stacie Rhoads, ASP Criminal Investigation Division commander. “Child predators exploit the innocence and trust of children. Our relentless pursuit of those who prey on children will ensure they are held accountable for their actions.”
