FBI Arrests Over 200 in Nationwide Child Exploitation Crackdown, Rescues 115 Children
Augusta, GA – In a sweeping, nationwide crackdown on child exploitation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced the arrest of 205 individuals and the rescue of 115 children as part of a coordinated initiative dubbed Operation Restore Justice. The multi-agency operation, which took place between April 28 and May 1, involved all 55 FBI field offices and coincided with the conclusion of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office played a significant role in the effort, charging nine individuals across the state of Georgia. Five suspects were apprehended in the Atlanta metro area, three in Augusta, and two in the Rome area. Charges against eight of the accused range from possession of child sexual abuse material to enticement of a minor. One individual faces charges of obstruction of justice.
The operation was a joint endeavor involving federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. According to the FBI, the initiative was designed not only to combat child exploitation crimes but also to spotlight the agency’s year-round commitment to protecting children from abuse.
“Our commitment is resolute. FBI Atlanta remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard children from those who seek to harm society’s most vulnerable,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “However, let there be no confusion—this week’s operation is just one chapter in a relentless, year-round effort that our dedicated agents are fully invested in. We will continue to leverage every tool and resource at our disposal to track down child predators and ensure they face justice.”
Officials emphasized that Operation Restore Justice is part of an ongoing strategy to address the widespread and deeply damaging issue of child exploitation. The FBI has urged the public to remain vigilant and to report suspected abuse through its online tip line or local law enforcement agencies.
The agency has not yet released the identities of the suspects arrested in Georgia, citing the ongoing nature of many of the investigations.
