The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO), in collaboration with local, state, and federal partners, has arrested 24 men in a five-day operation targeting individuals who use the internet to sexually exploit children. Authorities stated that the suspects demonstrated a willingness to meet children anywhere, from private residences to public places like gas stations, with some even bringing condoms, drugs, or firearms to the planned encounters.
The extensive operation originated in a “chatter command center,” where expertly trained undercover detectives from across the state engaged with potential predators. These detectives created profiles on various online platforms, including dating websites, chat rooms, and popular gaming sites like Minecraft and Roblox, using altered photos to appear underage. Officials noted that inappropriate messages and photos often began arriving within minutes of their profiles becoming active.
Once a conversation was initiated, the undercover chatters would explicitly inform the predator that they were underage. Even after this disclosure, many predators continued the illicit communication. When sufficient evidence was gathered, the detectives coordinated with the command center to orchestrate a “takedown.” Detectives were strategically staged at various locations across the city, waiting for alerts that a predator was en route to meet the “child” decoy. Upon the suspect’s arrival, detectives immediately moved in for the arrest. JSO emphasized that each takedown was meticulously planned and executed to ensure public safety was never compromised.
Among the 24 men arrested were individuals with notable circumstances:
- Corey Fisher (40): Continued chatting with multiple detectives during the operation.
- Gregory Bethel (54): A JSO civilian employee who resigned immediately after his arrest.
- Daniel Hodge (46): Also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamines).
- Oscar Orlando Perozo Torbello (24): Found to be in the country illegally.
- Luis Maldonado (23): Had a gun in his car when he arrived at the takedown location.
- Benjamin Huger (24): Also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Marijuana).
- Kyle Judd (34): A repeat offender, previously arrested for similar crimes during JSO Operation Blue Hawk, he had served nearly two years in prison.
- Ray Scarboro (21): An active-duty sailor in the Navy, he had a gun in his car upon arrival.
- Charles Cobb (59): Traveled from Orlando to meet the child and planned to bring the child back to Orlando with him.
- Leon Sessions (37): Had a gun in his waistband when detectives apprehended him.
Other arrestees include Marwan Rukab (59), Nathaniel Johnson (36), Marcus Carrero (40), Andres Eduardo Gonzalez Pena (41), Elydiel De Jesus Vega (32), Cleshawn Robinson (34), Craig Finn (51), Freddy Meneses (43), Javon Simmons (25), Giuliano Vignutti (29), Michael Wirth (33), Vincent Hurtch (61), and Sean Small (39).
Detectives are continuing to follow up on outstanding leads and anticipate several additional arrests.
“If you’re still outstanding, turn yourself in,” warned Sheriff T.K. Waters. “If not, we’re going to hunt you down. We do not tolerate, under any circumstances, you hurting our kids. We’re always there. We’re always listening. We’re always paying attention. If you’re doing it, we’re going to catch you, and we’re going to bring you to justice.”
The JSO urges anyone who suspects online child exploitation to report activity by calling 904-630-0500 or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST.
Parents are also reminded to prioritize online safety:
- Open Communication: Talk openly and frequently with children about online risks, ensuring they feel comfortable coming to you without fear of punishment.
- “Stranger Danger” Online: Emphasize that “Stranger Danger” extends to online interactions. Children should never share personal information or agree to meet someone in person without parental permission and supervision.
- Monitor Apps: Regularly monitor the apps children use, utilize parental controls, and employ monitoring software to block inappropriate content and track online activity. Be vigilant about how children interact with others online, even on seemingly safe apps.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Be alert for secretive behavior (especially with devices), sudden mood changes, receiving gifts from unknown individuals, or talking about new online “friends” you haven’t met.
- Educate Yourself: Understand how predators operate and how your child’s favorite games and apps work to better spot red flags.
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