A multi-agency operation resulted in the arrest of 265 alleged child predators, who are accused of using social media and online platforms to lure young victims, authorities announced Wednesday.
Dubbed Operation Spring Cleaning, the initiative was carried out by law enforcement agencies from five Southern California counties, including LA, Orange, San Bernardino and Ventura, between April 6 and 19, leading to the rescue of 27 children, the Los Angeles Police Department announced during a news conference.
“The goal was to identify and arrest predators who were using the internet to sexually exploit children and to rescue young victims from abuse,” LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said, adding the arrested suspects face various charges ranging from possession, distribution and production of child sexual abuse material to human trafficking…