Cyber investigators target child porn

Juvenile Justice Digest, Apr 1, 2002

The FBI is engaged in a widespread and continuing investigation of a loosely structured international ring of pedophiles that use the Internet to exchange child pornography and to lure victims.

In announcing 86 arrests and investigations of an estimated 7,000 suspects over a two-year period, Director Robert S. Mueller III said the FBI would continue to monitor websites that feature child pornography.

One-third of those investigated live in other countries.

The sting, known as "Operation Candyman," included more than 225 searches in more than 20 states. The ring has been disbanded and a Web site that allowed the suspects to send and receive pornography was shut down, FBI officials said.

The individuals were also involved in an e-mail group called "Candyman."

Of those arrested, 27 admitted molesting at least 35 children.

Mueller said the investigation would continue and more arrests will be made. Those charged included two Roman Catholic priests and other clergy, police officers, therapists and school officials.

The operation involved all 56 of the FBI's field offices.

"It is clear that a new marketplace for child pornography has emerged from the dark comers of cyberspace," said Attorney General John Ashcroft.

"Innocent boys and girls have been targeted by offenders who view them as sexual objects," the attorney general said.

"Operation Candyman demonstrates both the scope of child pornography and the commitment of law enforcement to shut it down," Ashcroft said.

Bruce Gebhardt, the FBI's new executive assistant director in charge of cyber-crime, described the target of the operation as an "international ring of pedophiles" that the FBI is determined to dismantle.

"We're dealing with children," Gebhardt said. "I'd like to see a sweep a day until we get them all out."