The state’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force arrested 48 suspected child sex offenders as part of Operation Broken Heart. “Internet predators continue to find new and innovative ways to prey upon our children and South Carolina is no exception,” said Attorney General Alan Wilson. “We must continue to expand our efforts to not only investigate and prosecute these crimes, but educate parents and youth on how they can be more vigilant and safe using technology.” The national operation was conducted in March-May. It involved all 61 ICAC Task Forces, which are comprised of over 4,500 law enforcement agencies across the country. Over 2,300 arrests were made nationwide. Task Force members also conducted 115 Internet safety presentations, reaching almost 18,000 people. The state’s ICAC Task Force began in 1998 as one of the original ten agencies awarded a grant by the U.S. Department of Justice. It has grown now to include 110 agencies and has made over 1,000 arrests. Operation Broken Heart targeted anyone who:

• was involved in the production/distribution of child pornography.

• sought a sexual relationship with a child.

• was involved in the sex trafficking of children.

• traveled overseas/to other states to abuse children.