PUTNAM COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The conclusion of Operation Soteria this weekend saw the arrest of several individuals for solicitation of a minor.
Reports from Putnam County Sheriff Bobby Eggleton Tuesday indicate that suspects traveled to Putnam County over the weekend to meet up with who they had been led to believe were minor children through online interactions during which sexual intent was established.
“There’s no more worthy cause than to investigate these cases and protect our children,” Sheriff Eggleton said.
The operation began on Friday and concluded on Sunday, and saw the suspects using an electronic device to facilitate communication with who they believed to be a juvenile child.
“I have dedicated my life to protecting the citizens of West Virginia and while I am the Sheriff in Putnam County, I will continue to ensure our children are safe,” Eggleton continued. “There will be more operations like this one conducted in the future.
“Remain vigilant and be aware of who your kids are conversing with online,” the statement concluded.
The enforcement operation, Operation Soteria, was an undercover initiative and collaborative effort between several entities including the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, Hurricane Police Department, Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office, Beckley Police Department, West Virginia State Police, and the US Department of Homeland Security Investigations.