Month-long sting operation in Okaloosa County leads to major arrests of suspected online predators
Okaloosa County, Florida – In November, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) made several arrests in a major operation aiming at online predators. Dubbed “Operation Cold Turkey,” the undercover program was meant to find and apprehend anyone using online platforms trying to engage in se*ual acts with youngsters.
The month-long sting resulted in the arrest of nine men who were apprehended as they arrived at various locations across the county, expecting to meet with juveniles. Instead, they came upon law enforcement personnel and were arrested. Among the those arrested are Domingo Sebastian, Joiarib Fernandez, Marquee Lewis, Sampson Graham, Edwin Huggins, Ancel Sterling, George Davis, Christian Reyes, and Donavon Spears.
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These defendants now face major accusations including traveling to see a juvenile for se*, using a computer to solicit a minor, and committing a felony via a two-way communication device. Christian Reyes was also been charged with possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Several law enforcement departments worked together during the operation. The OCSO expressed gratitude for the help and involvement of the Crestview Police Department, Fort Walton Beach Police Department, Niceville Police Department, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), and Office of Special Investigations. Their combined efforts were crucial for the preparation and implementation of this sting operation, therefore stressing the need of interagency cooperation in addressing such important problems.
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The OCSO has committed itself to protecting the children of the community from predators and cyber threats. Actions like “Cold Turkey” serve as a reminder of the continuous threats on the internet and the continuous law enforcement initiatives to counteract them.
As the suspects await their day in court, the sheriff’s office continues to monitor online activities closely, ready to intervene to safeguard young individuals.
