“In total, Operation Muddy Waters led to 13 child exploitation arrests, 48 sex offender absconder arrests, two referrals to Louisiana and Colorado, one victim recovered, more than 8 search warrants, more than 50 devices seized for forensics and at least three immigration detainers,” according to the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office.
“The work done in this operation made all the difference to this child and to countless others who are a little safer online right now,” Fitch said.
Operation Muddy Waters took place from July 20 to July 31, uniting federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies across Mississippi. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the operation, working with both U.S. attorneys’ offices in Mississippi, the state attorney general’s office, and the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary said protecting children’s fundamental rights is among the government’s highest obligations. “We are duty bound to protect these rights, especially as they apply to our children,” he said, adding that “everything else is secondary.”
“Under no circumstances can American society equivocate this duty. No rationalization, no ambiguity, no tempered response, victimizing children is evil and a civilized society cannot tolerate it,” Leary said. “We will be absolutely relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to exploit our kids. These crimes are an abomination.”
Sextortion can happen on a website, app, or game where people connect, the FBI warned. Sometimes, criminals threaten to share a revealing photo or video unless victims send more.
“More often, however, this crime starts when young people believe they are communicating with someone their own age who is interested in a relationship or with someone who is offering something of value,” the FBI said. Criminals then threaten to share the images or use violence to get more. Many kids feel too ashamed or afraid to ask for help.
The FBI urges parents and kids to learn about sextortion and talk about staying safe online.