Four alleged child predators arrested in federal operation, FBI says

NEW ORLEANS, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – A federal operation to identify, track, and arrest child predators led to charges for multiple individuals from across Louisiana.

The FBI New Orleans Bureau announced Operation Restore Justice was carried out in Louisiana from April 29 to May 2, as part of a national initiative to identify and prosecute child predators. The operation coincided with the nationwide observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, partnering law enforcement with FBI agents nationwide.

“The FBI is unwavering in its fight to protect children,” said Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans. “Each arrest is a powerful testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI and our dedicated law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable among us. It reaffirms the FBI’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims and hold predators accountable.”

The arrests in Louisiana were made following a joint, undercover operation by the FBI, the Alexandria Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. One of the Louisiana suspects will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, two will face state charges prosecuted by the Rapides Parish District Attorney, and a fourth was indicted in the Eastern District of Louisiana on five separate counts.

“This nationwide effort has made its way to the Western District of Louisiana and the U.S. Attorney’s Office stands ready to join with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners to continue this investigation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “These types of crimes against minor children are reprehensible, and we are committed to doing what we can to get these child predators off of our streets.”

United States Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel announced the operation’s success during a news conference on Wednesday morning.