The Department of Justice has announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and arresting child sex predators. The operation led to the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 offenders. Conducted over five days, this effort involved all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices across the country.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, "The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us." She expressed gratitude towards the FBI and their partners for their work in Operation Restore Justice.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that "every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation," adding that "Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten."
Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa G. Johnston from the Southern District of West Virginia highlighted their dedication to combating child sexual exploitation with all available resources. She noted that Operation Restore Justice reflects a commitment to protecting children.
Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge, reiterated that each arrest sends a powerful message: those who prey on children will be found and brought to justice.
In one notable case within West Virginia's Southern District, Konnor Wolfe Lyons was indicted on charges related to possessing or attempting to receive child pornography. Lyons was arrested by the FBI following his indictment.
Other arrests across the nation include allegations such as production and distribution of child sexual abuse material, online enticement, transportation of minors for illegal purposes, and trafficking. For instance, a state trooper in Minneapolis was arrested for allegedly producing abuse material while wearing uniforms.
Parental vigilance played a crucial role in some cases; notably in California where an offender was apprehended shortly after a victim reported abuse following an online safety presentation at school.
This operation aligns with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed by the Department in April. It underscores ongoing efforts under Project Safe Childhood—a program initiated by DOJ in May 2006—to combat child exploitation through federal collaboration with local agencies.
The Department also collaborates with organizations like NCMEC which operate hotlines for reporting suspected exploitation cases via platforms like missingkids.org or tips.fbi.gov.
