FRANKFORT, Ky. (WEVV) — Kentucky State Police (KSP) recently arrested 16 child predators as part of a national operation targeting online exploitation, Gov. Andy Beshear announced.
“We are committed to building a safer Kentucky, especially for our most vulnerable children,” said Gov. Beshear. He praised the efforts of the KSP Electronic Crime Branch for their work in protecting children online.
Operation Safe Online Summer, conducted throughout April and coordinated by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, resulted in significant enforcement actions. Lt. Mike Bowling of the KSP emphasized the operation’s focus on education and prevention.
“Operation Safe Online Summer is about more than arrests. It is about education, prevention and protecting the most vulnerable among us,” Bowling said. The operation led to over 70 investigations and the execution of 37 search warrants.
Law enforcement identified 11 child victims and submitted 16 cases for state prosecution along with two for federal prosecution. Additionally, 37 forensic examinations were completed, and 934 GB of data were examined for evidence.
The KSP also conducted 14 Community Outreach Presentations, reaching over 730 individuals with critical internet safety information. They continue to encourage vigilance regarding online dangers to children.
The Beshear-Coleman administration has been actively working to enhance safety and support for children in Kentucky. Recent legislative actions include making sexual extortion a felony and strengthening laws against child exploitation.
Since 2019, the administration has awarded over $149 million in grants to victim service agencies, aiding approximately 323,000 Kentuckians. In August, $14.9 million was awarded through the federal Victims of Crime Act grant program to support victims of various crimes.
