06/16/2026
A two-month joint law enforcement operation in Texas resulted in the arrest of 276 suspects and the rescue of 89 children from online exploitation. The operation, known as "Operation Soteria Shield," was conducted from March through April 2026 by the FBI Dallas Division's North Texas Child Exploitation Task Force in partnership with the North Texas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Investigators targeted individuals involved in trafficking, s*xual assault, and the possession or distribution of child s*xual abuse material across multiple Texas jurisdictions. The operation involved 91 law enforcement agencies and 197 law enforcement personnel. It is part of the FBI's national enforcement initiative called "Operation Iron Pursuit," focused on combating online child exploitation across the country. Authorities say cases remain active and that additional charges may be filed as digital forensic examinations of seized devices continue. FBI Dallas officials described the operation as one of the most significant child exploitation enforcement actions in Texas history. The 89 children rescued are receiving care and support through child advocacy services. Anyone with information on child exploitation is urged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's CyberTipline at 1-800-THE-LOST. D