TURLOCK — A multi‑agency online predator operation led by the Turlock Police Department resulted in the arrest of 13 people accused of attempting to engage in illicit activity with children, authorities announced this week.
The operation, coordinated with the Sacramento County Hi‑Tech Crimes Task Force, targeted individuals seeking to exploit minors through online communication. Twelve suspects were booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center, while one was booked into the Sacramento County Jail. Police said the investigation remains active and additional arrests are possible.
Among those arrested was a registered sex offender. Four suspects were Turlock residents, while others traveled from Modesto, Atwater, Ceres, Fresno, Merced, Oakdale, Stockton and San Francisco.
The task force received support from numerous agencies, including the California Department of Justice, Sutter County District Attorney’s Office, Shasta County Sheriff’s Office, Yuba City Police Department, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Highway Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations and the Folsom Police Department.
“Every arrest represents someone who intended to exploit a child,” Capt. Miguel Pacheco said. “These operations are about identifying those individuals before they have the opportunity to harm a victim. I’m incredibly proud of the work our detectives and partner agencies put into this operation and their continued commitment to protecting children.”
Detective Gina Giovacchini, who coordinated the effort, said the collaboration prevented real‑world harm. “Every conversation intercepted is one that never reached a real child,” she said. “Operations like this don’t happen alone. They require planning, coordination and strong partnerships.”
Police urged parents and guardians to speak with children about online safety, monitor the apps and platforms they use and report suspected exploitation immediately.
Anyone with information about the operation may contact Detective Giovacchini at [209] 668‑6539, the department’s tip line at [209] 668‑5550 ext. 6780, or email tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.
