DALLAS, Texas (KBTX) – Federal and local law enforcement agencies in North Texas say a two-month operation targeting online child sexual exploitation led to hundreds of arrests and dozens of child rescues.
The FBI Dallas Division, working with the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, announced the results of Operation Soteria Shield, a coordinated effort carried out in March and April 2026. Officials said the operation resulted in 276 child exploitation-related arrests and the rescue of 89 children.
This operation was jointly managed by the FBI Dallas Division, Dallas Police Department, Plano Police Department, Wylie Police Department, and Garland Police Department.(FBI Dallas)
The operation was jointly managed by the FBI Dallas Division, Dallas Police Department, Plano Police Department, Wylie Police Department, and Garland Police Department, according to the announcement.
Authorities said the results came from broad collaboration across Texas: 91 law enforcement agencies and 197 personnel participated, including investigators, analysts, digital forensic examiners, prosecutors, victim advocates, and child advocacy partners. The goal, officials said, was twofold—identify and arrest offenders, while also locating victims and connecting children and families to services.
What investigators were targeting
Law enforcement said Operation Soteria Shield focused on offenders who exploit children through online platforms, social media, messaging apps, and other digital environments. Investigators pursued cases involving alleged:
possession, distribution, production, or promotion of child sexual abuse material (CSAM)online solicitation of minorstraffickingsexual assault and other child exploitation-related offenses
Officials said investigators also worked to identify previously unknown victims. Many of the cases remain active, and additional charges could be filed as forensic exams and follow-up investigations continue.
Officials: “Every child deserves to grow up safe”
“Operation Soteria Shield brought together over 90 agencies from across the state of Texas,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock, adding that the operation “made a significant impact” and that partners will continue prioritizing child safety.
Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux emphasized the long-term harm of these crimes, saying they “leave lasting trauma on children and families,” and credited the multi-agency effort for the operation’s success.
Leaders from Plano, Wylie, Garland, and Fort Worth also praised the operation, highlighting the need for continued coordination to protect children from exploitation that can occur “on a device” and through online contact.
Reporting and prevention urged
Officials encouraged parents and guardians to talk with children about online safety, monitor digital activity, and report suspicious communications. Authorities also urged schools, technology companies, and community members to report concerns early, noting that exploitation can begin with seemingly ordinary digital interactions.
How to report tips
Anyone with information about child exploitation is urged to contact:
local law enforcementthe FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBIsubmit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)CyberTipline at cybertipline.org
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