Manatee County Agencies Arrest 27 in Major Internet Crimes Investigation

Manatee County law enforcement agencies recently concluded a multi-agency internet crimes investigation, leading to 27 arrests and 247 charges. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Child Protection Investigation Division participated in Operation Safe Childhood, a summer-long effort targeting internet-related offenses.

This broad initiative included two distinct enforcement operations. Operation Match Maker focused on sex offenders and sexual predators who failed to report dating apps and other internet accounts as required by law. Separately, the Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit investigated leads provided by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Operation Match Maker, launched in March 2026, involved the Sheriff’s Office Sex Offender Unit partnering with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Investigators reviewed 105 probationary offenders and 82 sexual predators. From this review, they identified violations involving 16 individuals. The operation concluded on July 9, resulting in 15 arrests and 115 felony charges. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Corrections Probation, and FDLE took offenders into custody during this period.

The Sheriff’s Office ICAC Unit also pursued investigative leads from NCMEC, contributing to the overall arrest and charge totals. This collaborative approach underscores the ongoing commitment to protecting children and ensuring compliance with offender registration laws in Manatee County.

Residents can stay informed about public safety initiatives by following official announcements from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.