FBI Dallas Announces 109 Children Rescued, 244 Offenders Arrested in Child Exploitation Investigation
By Sydnie Henry | Texas Scorecard | June 11, 2025
A sweeping law enforcement initiative led by the FBI Dallas Field Office and the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has resulted in the rescue of 109 children and the arrest of 244 individuals involved in online child exploitation.
The operation, named Soteria Shield, was conducted throughout April 2025 and represents one of the largest coordinated crackdowns on digital child exploitation in Texas history.
Operation Soteria Shield brought together more than 70 law enforcement agencies from across Texas. Agencies leveraged the expertise of highly skilled computer crimes investigators, working around the clock to identify victims and apprehend offenders engaged in the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock emphasized that “This was not an easy operation, but a necessary one. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to protect the children in our communities, and we will hold child predators accountable for their crimes.”
Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux praised the task force’s collaborative spirit: “Operation Soteria Shield was a massive team effort and a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we unite around one clear mission: protecting our kids and holding offenders accountable.”
The digital evidence seized during the operation is still under forensic review, and authorities anticipate further arrests and the identification of additional victims. Law enforcement leaders stress that while this operation marks a significant victory, the fight against online child exploitation continues.
A born and bred Texan, Sydnie serves as the Managing Editor for Texas Scorecard. She graduated from Patrick Henry College with a B.A. in Government and is utilizing her research and writing skills to spread truth to Texans.