News Summary
Shreveport Police conducted a significant operation against online predators, leading to the arrest of six men accused of attempting to exploit minors. The initiative, which took place from March 24 to March 30, involved collaboration with SOSA, a group dedicated to protecting children from online abuse. With serious charges filed, the police urge parents to monitor their children’s online activity. The operation highlights the ongoing commitment of law enforcement to safeguard vulnerable members of the community.
Shreveport Takes a Stand Against Online Predators
In a significant move to protect the city’s youth, the Shreveport Police Department recently conducted a bold operation that led to the arrest of six men accused of attempting to exploit minors online. The undercover initiative, part of an ongoing fight against sexual predators, took place between March 24 and March 30.
What Happened?
The operation was spearheaded by the Vice Unit of the Shreveport Police, in collaboration with a dedicated organization known as SOSA (Safe from Online Sex Abuse). Volunteers from SOSA took on the critical role of posing as children in various chat groups, engaging with individuals suspected of predatory behaviors. This meticulous approach allowed law enforcement to effectively identify potential threats lurking on the internet.
Who’s Been Arrested?
The operation resulted in a range of charges against the six suspects, highlighting serious offenses related to indecent behavior and solicitation of minors. Here’s a quick look at who was arrested:
- Benjamin Picket, a 42-year-old white male, faces charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
- Christopher Thomas, a 29-year-old white male, was arrested on similar charges.
- Bryan Stephens, a 29-year-old black male, also faces charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
- Hayden Day, a 25-year-old white male, is charged with the Purchase of Commercial Sexual Activity.
- Corey Lilly, a 41-year-old black male, faces multiple charges including Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, and Resisting an Officer.
- Liltoius Mitchell, a 27-year-old black male, is charged with Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.
Why This Matters
The Shreveport Police Department is vocal in its commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the community, especially children who might fall victim to online predators. In light of this operation, they are urging parents to be ever-watchful of their children’s online activities, emphasizing that vigilance can make a huge difference.
SOSA’s Role
As an organization that has a history of tackling online abuse, SOSA has successfully collaborated with law enforcement in various regions. They’ve boasted a remarkable 100% conviction rate for those arrested through their investigations, showcasing the effectiveness of their methods. Celebrity involvement, such as contributions from actress Ariel Winter of “Modern Family,” adds a unique dimension to their outreach efforts.
Things Are Heating Up
This operation has attracted widespread attention, especially as it came to light that three of the arrested men had military backgrounds. Such revelations underline the urgency and seriousness of online safety and the threats posed by individuals in positions of trust.
Shreveport’s Ongoing Fight
In a broader context, the Shreveport Police are not stopping at this operation. They are currently investigating allegations involving former KTBS news director Bill Lunn in connection to computer-aided solicitation for sexual purposes. Although unrelated to the recent arrests, this ongoing inquiry emphasizes the pressing need for proactive measures to ensure community safety.
Final Thoughts
As Shreveport continues its crackdown on online sexual predators, it’s a reminder for all of us to be aware and take action in safeguarding our children. Managed partnerships between law enforcement and organizations like SOSA provide a robust framework for combating exploitation, showing that every community member shares a role in protecting the vulnerable. Stay informed, stay alert, and let’s keep our children safe in this ever-evolving digital landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Shreveport’s Former News Anchor Bill Lunn Under Investigation
Shreveport Man Faces Charges After Arrest for Attempted Solicitation of Minor
Additional Resources
- KSLA News: 6 Men Arrested in Online Predator Operation
- 710 KEEL: Online Sex Crimes Arrests
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: How Decoys Helped Arrests
- KTAL News: Predator Hunters Spark Investigation
- Wikipedia: Internet Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cyberbullying
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
