The Department of Justice has revealed the results of Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide effort aimed at identifying and apprehending child sex offenders. The operation led to the rescue of 115 children and the arrest of 205 offenders. This initiative was conducted over five days by all 55 FBI field offices, in collaboration with the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department's Criminal Division, as well as United States Attorney’s Offices across the country.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the department's commitment to protecting victims, stating, "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 also praised the efforts of the FBI and its partners in Operation Restore Justice.
FBI Director Kash Patel reiterated this commitment: “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us.” He added that Operation Restore Justice demonstrates that no predator is beyond reach.
In Texas' Eastern District, Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin Jr. commented on local efforts: “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and our best hope for the future... here in the Eastern District of Texas, we will do all we can to ensure that they are protected.” McGlothin thanked law enforcement partners for their dedication to tracking down predators.
R. Joseph Rothrock, Special Agent in Charge at FBI Dallas, noted that each arrest sends a clear message against crimes targeting children: “Protecting children is a top priority of the FBI."
Among those arrested was Yehudra-Ari Nathan Esquenazi from Dallas. He faces charges related to social media activities involving discussions about child exploitation. The operation also saw arrests across various states for crimes such as production and distribution of abuse material and trafficking minors.
Community vigilance played an essential role in some cases. For instance, a man was apprehended shortly after a victim reported abuse following an online safety session at school.
This initiative coincides with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed in April. It underscores ongoing efforts under Project Safe Childhood—a program launched by the DOJ in May 2006—to combat child exploitation through federal-state partnerships.
The public is encouraged to report suspected child exploitation via several channels including an FBI tipline or contacting local offices directly.
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