DATE/TIME: Sunday, April 19, 2026, through Saturday, May 2, 2026
INCIDENT: Operation Firewall
LOCATION: County of San Bernardino
SUMMARY:
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has successfully concluded Operation Firewall, a concentrated two-week enforcement period resulting in the arrest of 101 perpetrators and the rescue of 16 children.
From April 19 through May 2, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department—an affiliate of the Los Angeles Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (LAICAC) Taskforce—led a massive effort to identify and apprehend individuals exploiting children through the internet.
The operation was spearheaded by the Crimes Against Children Detail and supported by personnel from 15 patrol stations across the county. This annual event serves as a critical initiative to combat the evolving threats children face in digital spaces.
Operation Results
The multi-agency effort targeted various levels of exploitation, leading to charges including:
• Possession and distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM)
• Arranging to meet with a minor for sexual purposes
• Sending lewd photographs to a minor
• Lewd acts with a minor
• Violations of sex offender registration requirements
Beyond the arrests, the most significant impact of the operation was the identification and rescue of 16 live victims, who have been removed from environments of further abuse and exploitation.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department remains steadfast in our dedication to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community. Operation Firewall sends a clear message: we will use every resource available to create a safe online environment and hold those who seek to harm our children accountable.
The Sheriff’s Department encourages parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding their children's online activity. For more information on internet safety or to report suspicious activity, please contact your local sheriff’s station.
Refer: Sergeant Floyd Stone
Station: Specialized Investigations Division – Crimes Against Children Detail
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
