A concerted effort by law enforcement agencies across the United States, dubbed Operation Relentless Justice, has culminated in the rescue of more than 200 children and the arrest of over 290 individuals accused of sexually exploiting minors. The intensive two-week operation, which involved all 56 FBI field offices, the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and U.S. attorneys’ offices nationwide, took place recently and highlights the federal government’s dedication to eradicating child exploitation both online and within local communities.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi, in a recent press release, underscored the importance of holding these predators accountable, stating, “We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice. Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes.”
The individuals arrested during Operation Relentless Justice were involved in a range of criminal activities, including the production, possession, and distribution of child sexual abuse material; online enticement of minors; transportation of children for sexual purposes; and sex trafficking. Many of the cases centered on the exploitation of internet platforms to target vulnerable victims.
Among the notable arrests were a Dallas-based airman and his wife, accused of producing illegal material, and a Raleigh police officer charged with distributing child sexual abuse content while also discussing sexual contact with minors. In Miami, a Guatemalan national with a history of prior deportation and criminal activity was apprehended for allegedly enticing a minor.
In Kansas, federal prosecutors charged two individuals, as reported by KCTV 5. Diana V. Brown, 46, of Topeka, faced multiple counts of producing child sexual abuse material and one count of possession. Reese C. Pack, 25, formerly of Ottawa, was arrested on a fugitive warrant and indicted on numerous offenses, including production of child sexual abuse material and coercion of a minor. It is important to note that both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Hawaii authorities also made arrests tied to the operation. According to Big Island Now, three individuals, including members of an online exploitation network known as “Greggy’s Cult,” were charged with producing and distributing illegal material involving minors. One defendant has already pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing, while the other cases are still pending.
FBI Director Kash Patel framed the operation as a sustained effort to combat child exploitation nationwide. “Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” Patel asserted. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation.”
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino praised the emotional dedication of FBI personnel working in violent crimes against children units. In a heartfelt statement on social media, Bongino noted that agents often leave work knowing another child remains in danger. “This FBI understands the gravity of this tragedy, and will continue to pursue these demons. You cannot hide behind a keyboard,” he said.
The operation also brought attention to the rising issue of sextortion cases. One such case in Virginia involved a man who allegedly coerced a 14-year-old into producing child sexual abuse material; the victim later attempted suicide after being told to harm herself.
Operation Relentless Justice follows similar federal initiatives earlier this year, such as Operation Restore Justice in May, which rescued 115 children, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which rescued 133. The FBI’s Victim Services Division has been actively supporting survivors with forensic interviews, medical referrals, and mental health resources. All cases are part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts to combat child sexual exploitation.
