A multi-agency child exploitation operation in Snohomish County led to 21 arrests as Washington State Patrol investigators targeted alleged online child predators.
EDMONDS, Wash. — Detectives posing as children online helped identify 21 people accused of trying to sexually exploit minors during a multi-day undercover operation in Snohomish County, the Washington State Patrol announced Wednesday.
The investigation, known as Operation Guardian, brought together more than 30 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Investigators targeted people they believe intended to sexually abuse or exploit children after making contact online. Prosecutors will now decide what criminal charges to file in each case.
Long-Running Operation Targets Child Predators
Operation Guardian is part of an effort that has operated across Washington for more than a decade.
The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force launched the initiative in 2015. Since then, investigators have made nearly 400 arrests and removed numerous children from dangerous situations through proactive investigations.
“Our detectives worked tirelessly with our local and federal partners to identify and arrest those who prey on the most vulnerable in our community,” Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste said.
“Protecting children from exploitation is one of the most important responsibilities we have as law enforcement officers, and we will continue to pursue these offenders relentlessly.”
Edmonds Assistant Police Chief Josh McClure said his department was proud to host the operation. He called it an example of what agencies can accomplish when they work together to protect children.
Investigators Focused on Serious Child Exploitation Crimes
The operation centered on several felony offenses involving child exploitation. Those crimes included:
- Attempted first-degree rape of a child
- Attempted second-degree rape of a child
- Commercial sexual abuse of a minor
- Communication with a minor for immoral purposes
- Sexual exploitation of a minor
- Unlawful possession of a firearm
“Our detectives worked tirelessly with our local and federal partners to identify and arrest those who prey on the most vulnerable in our community.”
Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste
Arrests Span Washington and Beyond
Authorities arrested suspects ranging from 22 to 65 years old. Most live in western Washington, although investigators also arrested people from Texas, Mississippi and Mexico. The Washington State Patrol released the names of all 21 people taken into custody as part of the operation.
Investigators believe additional victims may exist.
Anyone with information about the suspects or possible victims is encouraged to contact the Missing and Exploited Children Task Force at mectf@wsp.wa.gov.
More Than 30 Agencies Took Part
Operation Guardian relied on investigators from more than 30 agencies, including the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, numerous Washington police departments and sheriff’s offices, and the Washington Department of Corrections. Officials said the large partnership allowed investigators to coordinate arrests across multiple jurisdictions during the operation.
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