A massive multi-agency law enforcement operation targeting online child exploitation resulted in 276 arrests and the rescue of 89 children across Texas.
Operation Soteria Shield, conducted during March and April 2026, was coordinated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Dallas Division's North Texas Child Exploitation Task Force and the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The effort was jointly managed by the Dallas Police Department, Plano Police Department, Wylie Police Department, and Garland Police Department.
Authorities said 91 law enforcement agencies and 197 personnel participated in the operation, which targeted individuals involved in the possession, distribution, production, or promotion of child sexual abuse material, online solicitation of minors, human trafficking, sexual assault, and other child exploitation offenses. Locally, Bedford, Carrollton, Colleyville, Euless, and Irving Police Departments were included in those 91 agencies.
Investigators also worked to identify previously unknown victims, locate exploited children, and connect victims and families with support services. Officials noted that many cases remain active and additional charges may be filed as forensic examinations and investigations continue.
“Operation Soteria Shield brought together over 90 agencies from across the State of Texas. Together, we were able to make a significant impact in the ongoing battle against predators who exploit children in our communities. This would not have been successful without the resolve of each participating agency,” said R. Joseph Rothrock. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to prioritize the safety of the most vulnerable members of our communities.”
Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux emphasized the lasting impact of child exploitation crimes.
“Protecting children from those who seek to exploit them is among the most important work we do in law enforcement. The success of Operation Soteria Shield reflects what is possible when agencies come together with a shared mission to identify predators, rescue victims, and hold offenders accountable,” Comeaux said. “These are not victimless crimes; they leave lasting trauma on children and families.”
Participating agencies included local, state, and federal law enforcement organizations from across Texas, including the Irving Police Department, Fort Worth Police Department, Lewisville Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Homeland Security Investigations, and numerous sheriff's offices, police departments, prosecutors, and child advocacy organizations.
Officials urged parents and guardians to discuss online safety with children, monitor digital activity, and report suspicious communications. Anyone with information about child exploitation is encouraged to contact local law enforcement, the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Reports involving the online exploitation of children may also be submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at CyberTipline.org.
