Police in Northern Colorado have made significant arrests following a recent sting operation targeting individuals attempting to engage in illegal activities with minors. Over 100 people responded to online ads posing as minors offering sexual acts, and three men were arrested after showing up to meet the supposed children.
The operation, led by the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, highlights the ongoing efforts to protect children from exploitation.
The Sting Operation
Investigators with the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office set up a sting operation by posing as underaged minors offering sexual services on local websites and forums.
This undercover operation attracted responses from more than 100 individuals, revealing the extent of the issue. The goal was to identify and arrest those attempting to exploit minors.
Arrests Made in the Operation
The sting resulted in the arrest of three men, including one who had traveled all the way from Grand Junction. The other two were local residents of Larimer County. These men arrived at the agreed-upon location, expecting to meet the supposed minors.
Instead, they were arrested and booked on four felony charges, including soliciting a child prostitute, internet luring of a child, cybercrime for soliciting to arrange a minor prostitute, and attempted sexual assault on a child.
Authorities Respond
Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen strongly condemned the actions of those arrested, emphasizing that such behavior is “inexcusable.” He stated, “These operations shine a light on the depravity that exists – even in safe communities like ours.”
Sheriff Feyen made it clear that the department is committed to continuing these efforts to protect children from predators.
This sting operation serves as a reminder of the persistent threats faced by children in today’s digital world. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to fighting online child exploitation, and this recent success underscores the importance of these ongoing efforts.
As technology continues to evolve, law enforcement agencies will remain vigilant in their work to keep children safe from predators.