Matthew R. Molsen United States Attorney for the District of Nebraska | U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska
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 over five days. The 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 for the work done by the FBI and their partners during this operation.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized that "every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation," adding that Operation Restore Justice demonstrates that no predator is beyond reach. He highlighted collaboration with federal, state, and local partners as crucial in sending a message that there is no safe haven for those who prey on children.
Acting United States Attorney Matthew R. Molsen remarked on his office's commitment to prioritizing these cases alongside local FBI partners. He noted their pride in contributing to this initiative.
Among those arrested was Kody Dickes from Ashland, Nebraska, charged with distribution and possession of child pornography. Other arrests included various crimes such as production of abuse material, online enticement, transportation of minors for sex, and trafficking.
Community efforts played a significant role in several arrests. In one instance in California, an offender was apprehended within hours after a victim disclosed abuse following an online safety presentation near Albany, N.Y.
This operation coincides with National Child Abuse Prevention Month observed by the Department in April. It underscores ongoing efforts to protect children through initiatives like Project Safe Childhood launched in May 2006. This program aims to combat child sexual exploitation by coordinating resources at federal, state, and local levels.
The Justice Department collaborates with organizations like the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) to share tips about potential exploitation via its hotline or website. Public vigilance is encouraged through reporting suspected exploitation via FBI channels or local field offices.
An indictment or complaint remains an allegation; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court.
