California law enforcement conducted a multi-day enforcement operation from August 17 through August 25 to combat the sexual exploitation of children, resulting in 15 arrests, the California Department of Justice announced.
The California Department of Justice's San Diego Human Trafficking Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations' Child Exploitation Group conducted the operation using online platforms. Undercover agents using personas presented as minors between ages 10 and 16 identified individuals allegedly seeking sexual contact with children. After suspects agreed to pay for or participate in sexual interactions with a minor and confirmed their intent to meet, they were directed to a predetermined location. Twelve individuals were arrested for arranging to meet a minor for lewd or lascivious conduct.
As part of the operation, law enforcement conducted parole compliance checks on individuals on active parole with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for sexual offenses involving minors. Three individuals were found out of compliance with parole conditions and were arrested. During one check, agents found one parolee possessing and viewing suspected child sexual abuse material.
Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement: "Operation Chatter Box sends an unmistakable message: if you go online looking to harm a child, law enforcement will be there waiting."