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Shreveport Takes Action Against Online Predators

Shreveport Police take action against online predators to protect local youth.

News Summary

Shreveport Police conducted a significant operation against online predators, leading to the arrest of six men accused of attempting to exploit minors. The initiative, which took place from March 24 to March 30, involved collaboration with SOSA, a group dedicated to protecting children from online abuse. With serious charges filed, the police urge parents to monitor their children’s online activity. The operation highlights the ongoing commitment of law enforcement to safeguard vulnerable members of the community.

Shreveport Takes a Stand Against Online Predators

In a significant move to protect the city’s youth, the Shreveport Police Department recently conducted a bold operation that led to the arrest of six men accused of attempting to exploit minors online. The undercover initiative, part of an ongoing fight against sexual predators, took place between March 24 and March 30.

What Happened?

The operation was spearheaded by the Vice Unit of the Shreveport Police, in collaboration with a dedicated organization known as SOSA (Safe from Online Sex Abuse). Volunteers from SOSA took on the critical role of posing as children in various chat groups, engaging with individuals suspected of predatory behaviors. This meticulous approach allowed law enforcement to effectively identify potential threats lurking on the internet.

Who’s Been Arrested?

The operation resulted in a range of charges against the six suspects, highlighting serious offenses related to indecent behavior and solicitation of minors. Here’s a quick look at who was arrested:

Benjamin Picket, a 42-year-old white male, faces charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
Christopher Thomas, a 29-year-old white male, was arrested on similar charges.
Bryan Stephens, a 29-year-old black male, also faces charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
Hayden Day, a 25-year-old white male, is charged with the Purchase of Commercial Sexual Activity.
Corey Lilly, a 41-year-old black male, faces multiple charges including Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, and Resisting an Officer.
Liltoius Mitchell, a 27-year-old black male, is charged with Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.

Why This Matters

The Shreveport Police Department is vocal in its commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the community, especially children who might fall victim to online predators. In light of this operation, they are urging parents to be ever-watchful of their children’s online activities, emphasizing that vigilance can make a huge difference.

SOSA’s Role

As an organization that has a history of tackling online abuse, SOSA has successfully collaborated with law enforcement in various regions. They’ve boasted a remarkable 100% conviction rate for those arrested through their investigations, showcasing the effectiveness of their methods. Celebrity involvement, such as contributions from actress Ariel Winter of “Modern Family,” adds a unique dimension to their outreach efforts.

Things Are Heating Up

This operation has attracted widespread attention, especially as it came to light that three of the arrested men had military backgrounds. Such revelations underline the urgency and seriousness of online safety and the threats posed by individuals in positions of trust.

Shreveport’s Ongoing Fight

In a broader context, the Shreveport Police are not stopping at this operation. They are currently investigating allegations involving former KTBS news director Bill Lunn in connection to computer-aided solicitation for sexual purposes. Although unrelated to the recent arrests, this ongoing inquiry emphasizes the pressing need for proactive measures to ensure community safety.

Final Thoughts

As Shreveport continues its crackdown on online sexual predators, it’s a reminder for all of us to be aware and take action in safeguarding our children. Managed partnerships between law enforcement and organizations like SOSA provide a robust framework for combating exploitation, showing that every community member shares a role in protecting the vulnerable. Stay informed, stay alert, and let’s keep our children safe in this ever-evolving digital landscape.