Fort Worth Police Department Arrests 11 in Sting Operation Against Online Child Predators
FORT WORTH, Texas – In a significant crackdown on online child predators, the Fort Worth Police Department, in coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies, has successfully conducted Operation Heatwave, leading to the arrest of 11 individuals. This operation, which took place from August 7 to August 9, targeted suspects involved in the online solicitation of children under the age of 17.
Utilizing undercover agents on various online platforms, the operation aimed to engage and apprehend suspects who were actively seeking to engage in sexual conduct with minors. The multi-agency initiative was spearheaded by the Fort Worth Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, emphasizing the department’s commitment to safeguarding children against online threats.
Arrest Details:
During Operation Heatwave, the following individuals were arrested and charged with the online solicitation of a child:
Alexis Javier Sanchez Monreal, 25, Dallas, TX
Cesar Ignacio Hernandez Perez, 31, Arlington, TX
Anthony Harold Knox, 56, Fort Worth, TX
Craig Bridgland, 42, Brisbane, Australia
Daniel Carlos Ramos, 40, Fort Worth, TX
Donte Tejuan Zachary, 44, Fort Worth, TX
Jonathan Hayden Pond, 33, Fort Worth, TX
Jose Luis Estrada Jr., 42, Krum, TX
Joseph Thomas Milarski, 21, Bedford, TX
Ralph Edward Hoskins, 32, Arlington, TX
Todd Brian Behney, 53, Fort Worth, TX
Chief Neil Noakes highlighted the significance of these coordinated efforts, stating, “We want to send a clear message: we will not tolerate any attempt to harm our children. The Fort Worth Police Department, alongside our dedicated partners, will continue to use every resource at our disposal to target and bring these offenders to justice.”
The success of Operation Heatwave underscores the ongoing commitment of the Fort Worth Police Department and its partner agencies to combat online exploitation and protect vulnerable children. Chief Noakes expressed his gratitude towards all the officers and agents involved, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in making the operation a success.
This operation serves as a stern warning to potential offenders that law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and proactive in thwarting attempts to exploit children online. The Fort Worth Police Department reaffirms its dedication to utilizing all available resources to ensure the safety of children across the region and beyond.
