A sweeping federal operation aimed at combating child exploitation has led to the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of over 200 suspected offenders across the United States, the Department of Justice recently announced.
Dubbed Operation Restore Justice, the five-day initiative involved all 55 FBI field offices, the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide. Authorities described the effort as a significant step in identifying, tracking, and arresting individuals involved in child sexual abuse and exploitation.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to protecting children and bringing perpetrators to justice,” a DOJ spokesperson said.
In the Southern District of Illinois, four individuals have been charged with serious federal offenses related to child exploitation:
Ryan G. Jones, 30, of Danville, is charged with the production of child pornography involving an 8-year-old victim in February 2025 in Williamson County. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison.
Trevor W. Yokley, 32, of Vandalia, is accused of attempting to entice a minor between January and April 2025 in Fayette and Effingham counties. The offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and could result in a life sentence.
Jared K. Galbraith, 38, of Belleville, faces two charges: sexual exploitation of children and transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. The alleged conduct occurred in October 2024 and involved transporting a minor from Alabama to St. Clair County. If convicted, Galbraith could face a combined minimum sentence of 25 years in prison.
Christopher A. Geisen, 44, formerly of Alton and now living in Pensacola, Florida, is charged with transporting child pornography involving a 12-year-old in October 2024. The charge carries a sentencing range of 5 to 20 years.
Meanwhile, a state-level operation conducted by the Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau led to the arrest of six individuals during a two-day sting operation in Madison County on April 23 and 24. The operation focused on suspects seeking to engage in sexual activity with minors. The Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office is overseeing those prosecutions.
The Department of Justice emphasized that the operation followed National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, underscoring its ongoing efforts to protect children and raise awareness about the threats they face. Officials urged the public to remain alert and report any suspected cases of child exploitation.
Reports can be made by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), visiting tips.fbi.gov, or contacting a local FBI field office.
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