Public Safety

16 Arrested in Alachua County Undercover Child Exploitation Sting

Alachua County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested 16 people following a three-day undercover operation called ‘Operation Firewall,‘ which ran from July 30 through August 1. Those arrested are accused of using the internet to attempt to sexually exploit children, with deputies apprehending individuals who traveled into or within Alachua County intending to engage with minors. Deputies also seized firearms, drugs, and other items during the operation, which was carried out in partnership with multiple outside law enforcement agencies.

Sources: WCJB TV20 · Mainstreet Daily News · The Gainesville Sun