Sac Sherriff, Folsom Police part of multi-agency operation against child internet sex crimes

Detectives from the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Task Force and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) conducted a major investigation targeting the sharing of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) across Northern California, serving 21 search warrants in a multi-county operation.

The long-term investigation identified individuals using sophisticated methods to share CSAM, also known as child pornography, to avoid detection. Detectives focused on high-priority targets based on the level of sophistication in their activities, the volume of files shared, positions of trust, and access to potential victims.

The suspects were located in several Northern California counties, including Yuba, Sutter, Yolo, Humboldt, Trinity, Shasta, Siskiyou, Mendocino, and Nevada. The task force, working with nearly 30 affiliate agencies, conducted extensive follow-up investigations, including surveillance, search warrant preparation, and logistical coordination.

During the three-week operation in September, detectives executed 21 search warrants at targeted locations. Suspects came from various professions, including pilots, scientific researchers, engineers, mechanics, IT specialists, independent contractors, retirees, and parents.

Among the significant outcomes of the operation was the rescue of two children under the age of four, who were being sexually assaulted by a relative. These assaults had not been previously reported to law enforcement or Child Protective Services (CPS). In another case, investigators discovered 30 illegal firearms at a suspect’s residence.

One suspect was found in possession of over 4,600 CSAM files and 27,000 additional files of child erotica. In total, more than 200 electronic devices were seized, along with compact discs, media storage devices, and books containing child erotica. Some of the material included BDSM-themed CSAM and CSAM involving torture.

Detectives seized 61 devices from one residence alone. Following the initial searches, they conducted further investigations, including forensic analysis of the seized electronics and additional interviews. Arrest warrants have been issued in several cases, with more pending as the forensic review continues.

At least two cases are being considered for federal prosecution. In one instance, a suspect resigned from their job and fled the country after learning of the investigation.

The multi-agency effort included collaboration from the following agencies: Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office; California Highway Patrol – CCIU; California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Homeland Security Investigations; Sutter County District Attorney’s Office; Marysville Police Department; Yuba City Police Department; Yuba County Sheriff’s Department; Yolo County Sheriff’s Office; Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; California Department of Justice; Redding Police Department; Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office and Etna Police Department; Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office; Placer County District Attorney’s Office; Sacramento Police Department; Folsom Police Department; Elk Grove Police Department; Citrus Heights Police Department; Sacramento County Probation Department; Weed Police Department; Shasta County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office; Tracy Police Department; Trinity County Sheriff’s Office; Grass Valley Police Department; Nevada County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to pursue arrests and forensic reviews of the seized devices.