04/06/2026
A federal operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through its Homeland Security Investigations division has resulted in 14 arrests following a three day undercover operation conducted March 16 through March 18, 2026 in the Dayton, Ohio area.
According to officials, the investigation targeted individuals responding to online advertisements offering s*x with minors. These ads were part of a controlled sting, meaning undercover agents posed as minors to identify and arrest suspects before any real children were harmed.
Authorities confirmed that those arrested face a range of charges, including solicitation and importuning, which in Ohio refers to attempting to arrange s*xual activity with a minor. Some charges are misdemeanors, while others rise to the felony level depending on the circumstances.
Officials also stated that several of those arrested held positions of public trust, including a pastor, a U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, and a public school employee. However, authorities have not publicly identified which individuals held those roles.
The operation was carried out in coordination with multiple agencies, including local law enforcement and the Miami Valley Human Trafficking Task Force, as part of ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation.
Officials described the allegations as deeply disturbing and emphasized the importance of proactive investigations like this to protect children and hold offenders accountable.
This remains an active investigation, and further details may be released as the case develops.
