06/03/2026
The Aubrey Police Department partnered with the FBI Dallas Division, the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, and more than 90 law enforcement agencies across Texas during Operation Soteria Shield 2026.
With the motto, “What happens in the dark will be brought to the light,” Operation Soteria Shield is dedicated to protecting children from online exploitation and holding offenders accountable. Conducted throughout March and April, this statewide effort focused on identifying individuals who prey on children online, rescuing victims, and bringing offenders to justice.
As a result of the operation:
▪️ 276 child exploitation arrests
▪️ 89 children rescued
▪️ 91 law enforcement agencies involved
▪️ 197 law enforcement personnel participating
This investigation targeted offenses including online solicitation of minors, possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, human trafficking, and other child exploitation-related crimes.
During the operation, the Aubrey Police Department partnered with the Celina Police Department and the Denton County Sheriff's Office to conduct Chat operations targeting perpetrators of online solicitation of minors. Detectives began an online conversation with Justin Patton, who believed he was engaging in a sexual conversation with what he believed was a minor. With the assistance of the Longview Police Department, an arrest was made.
The success of Operation Soteria Shield demonstrates the power of collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies working together toward a common goal: safeguarding children and strengthening the safety of our communities.
