A multi-agency investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation resulted in 13 arrests in Spokane County over several days, the Washington State Patrol announced.
Operation Liberty Lake focused on suspects accused of sexually abusing or exploiting children in the Liberty Lake area east of Spokane. The investigation involved Department of Homeland Security agents, Border Patrol, FBI, and 13 local police agencies, with more than 20 law enforcement personnel participating.
Fourteen people were taken into custody, with one person not arrested. Suspects range in age from 21 to 64 and reside in or near Spokane, Spokane Valley, and various Washington and Idaho cities including Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, Fernwood, Rathdrum, and Chattaroy.
“Our detectives worked tirelessly with our local and federal partners to identify and arrest those who prey on the most vulnerable in our community,” Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste stated. “Protecting children from exploitation is one of the most important responsibilities we have as law enforcement officers, and we will continue to pursue these offenders relentlessly.”
Liberty Lake Police Chief Damon Simmons said protecting vulnerable community members from sexual predators represents a top priority. “This collaboration strengthens our ability to hold offenders accountable and keep our neighborhoods safe,” Simmons stated.
The Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington are reviewing cases to determine charges. Suspects could face charges including rape of a child, communication with a minor for immoral purposes, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force led the investigation. The agency is an Internet Crimes Against Children affiliate, part of a national network focusing on technology-facilitated child exploitation.
Investigators continue gathering information to assist prosecutors. Anyone with information or knowledge about potential victim identities should contact MECTF at mectf@wsp.wa.gov.
Participating agencies included Washington State Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, multiple county sheriff’s offices, FBI, and numerous police departments across Washington and Idaho.
