A major undercover operation led by the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office High Tech Crimes Unit (HTCU) has resulted in the arrest of 16 individuals accused of attempting to prey on children online.
Dubbed Operation Boogeyman, the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) initiative brought together multiple agencies, including the Citrus County School Board Police Department, U.S. Secret Service, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and several local police departments.
During the operation, undercover detectives posed as minors on social media and messaging platforms. Investigators say the suspects initiated conversations, sent explicit content, and in several cases, traveled with the intent to meet what they believed were underage children for sexual activity.
Among those arrested were convicted sex offenders and predators who violated probation or parole conditions. Charges range from solicitation of a minor and unlawful communication to child human trafficking.
“These predators knew they were targeting children and still chose to pursue them,” said Sheriff David Vincent. “Operation Boogeyman exposed just how real and dangerous these threats are in the digital world. I couldn’t be prouder of our High Tech Crimes Unit and the partner agencies who worked tirelessly to bring these predators to justice.”
The sheriff’s office released a list of those arrested, including individuals from Citrus County and surrounding areas. Several suspects face multiple felony counts, and some remain in custody without bond.
Authorities are urging parents to speak openly with their children about online safety and to monitor internet use closely.
Anyone with information about potential child exploitation is asked to call the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office at (352) 249-2790 or use the “Submit a Tip” feature on the CCSO mobile app.
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