BREAKING: Sixteen individuals have been arrested in a major undercover operation targeting child predators in Citrus County, Florida. The operation, dubbed Operation Boogeyman, was executed by the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office High Tech Crimes Unit in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Authorities confirm that this urgent initiative was launched to combat dangerous online predators attempting to engage in sexual activity with minors. During the operation, which took place earlier this week, law enforcement personnel posed as underage children on various social media platforms and websites. The suspects initiated contact, sending sexually explicit messages and images, fully aware that they were communicating with minors.
The operation revealed alarming statistics, as several individuals traveled to meet the fictitious underage children in person, intending to engage in illegal sexual activities. Among those arrested were previously convicted sex offenders, some of whom were reportedly violating the conditions of their probation or parole.
“These predators knew they were targeting children and still chose to pursue them,” said Sheriff David Vincent. “Operation Boogeyman exposed how real and dangerous these threats are in the digital world. I couldn’t be prouder of the men and women in our High Tech Crimes Unit and the partner agencies who worked tirelessly to bring these predators to justice.”
This critical operation not only highlights the ongoing threat of online child predators but also underscores the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies dedicated to keeping children safe. The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that these types of operations will continue as they strive to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
As these developments unfold, the community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activity. The focus on such operations is vital, as authorities work to ensure that those who prey on children face serious consequences for their actions.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned.
