Operation Guardian nets 21 arrests in child exploitation investigation

EDMONDS — Twenty-one people were arrested during a multiagency child exploitation operation in Snohomish County as investigators targeted individuals suspected of attempting to sexually exploit children, according to the Washington State Patrol.

The operation, dubbed Operation Guardian, brought together more than 30 local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, including the Chelan County Sheriff's Office, to identify and arrest people allegedly involved in online child sexual abuse and exploitation. The Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney's Office will review the cases to determine what criminal charges will be filed.

Investigators said the operation was coordinated by the Washington State Patrol's Missing and Exploited Children Task Force, Washington's affiliate of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Since the task force began conducting similar operations in 2015, officials said it has resulted in nearly 400 arrests while helping identify and remove children from dangerous situations.

Those taken into custody ranged in age from 22 to 65 and included residents of communities across Washington, as well as suspects from Texas, Mississippi and Mexico.

Authorities said the investigation focused on allegations including attempted first- and second-degree child rape, commercial sexual abuse of a minor, communication with a minor for immoral purposes, sexual exploitation of a minor and unlawful possession of a firearm.

"Our detectives worked tirelessly with our local and federal partners to identify and arrest those who prey on the most vulnerable in our community," Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste said. "Protecting children from exploitation is one of the most important responsibilities we have as law enforcement officers, and we will continue to pursue these offenders relentlessly."

Edmonds Police Assistant Chief Josh McClure said the operation demonstrated the value of cooperation among agencies dedicated to protecting children from exploitation.

Anyone with information related to the suspects or potential victims is asked to contact the Washington State Patrol's Missing and Exploited Children Task Force.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media