DALLAS, Texas — A month-long operation targeting online child exploitation has resulted in the rescue of 109 children and the arrest of 244 offenders, according to the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and FBI Dallas. The initiative, named Operation Soteria Shield, was conducted in April 2025.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving more than 70 Texas law enforcement agencies, including the FBI Dallas Division, Dallas Police Department, Plano Police Department, Wylie Police Department, and Garland Police Department. These agencies worked tirelessly to identify victims and apprehend offenders involved in the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock emphasized the importance of the operation, stating, “We had a common goal, which was to rescue children from abuse and exploitation.” Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux expressed pride in the operation, noting, “Operation Soteria Shield was a massive team effort and a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite around one clear mission: protecting our kids and holding offenders accountable.”…