Manatee County Sheriff's Office Arrests 27 in Summer-Long Internet Crime Crackdown, Files 247 Charges

Myakka City, FL – A summer-long, multi-agency investigation targeting internet-related sexual offenses and violations concluded recently, resulting in 27 arrests and 247 charges. Detectives from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Child Protection Investigation Division played a key role in the effort, dubbed 'Operation Safe Childhood.'

The comprehensive operation included two distinct enforcement initiatives: 'Operation Match Maker' and an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit. These efforts aimed to hold offenders accountable and protect children in the digital realm.

Operation Match Maker specifically targeted sex offenders and sexual predators who failed to report dating apps and other internet accounts as required by law. In March 2026, the Sheriff’s Office Sex Offender Unit partnered with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to launch this initiative. Investigators reviewed 105 probationary offenders, identifying 40 online accounts for further scrutiny. This led to the discovery of violations involving 15 sex offenders and sexual predators. A subsequent review of 82 sexual predators identified additional accounts and one more offender in violation. Tips from Crime Stoppers and anonymous complaints also assisted in uncovering unreported social media, internet accounts, email addresses, temporary residences, and employment violations.

Operation Match Maker concluded on July 9, with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Corrections Probation, and FDLE taking 15 offenders into custody. This specific part of the operation alone resulted in 115 felony charges.

Separately, the Sheriff’s Office ICAC Unit pursued investigative leads provided by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). These tips often involve the exploitation of children online, leading to further investigations and arrests.

The overall success of these operations underscores the ongoing commitment of local law enforcement to combat internet crimes and ensure the safety of Myakka City residents, particularly its most vulnerable. Residents can continue to support these efforts by reporting suspicious online activity to local authorities or through Crime Stoppers.