TULSA, OKLA (KTUL) — Tulsa police have rescued more than 30 children from sexual predators in Tulsa County this year, with many cases beginning online and ending in homes, according to authorities.
The rescues are the result of extensive digital investigations by the Tulsa Police Department’s Sexual Predator Investigations and Digital Evidence Recovery Unit, which consists of only five investigators.
Lt. Mark Kraft noted that every case occurred within Tulsa, but solving them is a slow and technical process due to the small size of the unit.
Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler highlighted that the danger often comes from familiar sources.
“In many respects they are grooming the older family members who become reliant for the care that they are providing,” Kunzweiler said.
He added that when other adults in the home fail to protect a child, they can also face charges. “Many times the actions of the older people or the parents are exactly the opposite of what the child needs to hear,” Kunzweiler said.
Kunzweiler also pointed to a tool his office uses to help young victims through the legal process: therapy dogs in the courtroom. He said the specially trained service dogs help calm children who have experienced sexual abuse, allowing them to feel safer while answering difficult questions.
According to the district attorney, the presence of the dogs has helped children open up more honestly, giving prosecutors a clearer picture of what happened and who was involved. Kunzweiler said the use of therapy dogs has been a miracle in helping cases move forward while reducing trauma for victims.
Authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance at home. If something feels off, whether online or in person, they urge individuals to trust their instincts and speak up.
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