WASHINGTON STATE — Forty-seven people were arrested in Washington state in a massive child pornography bust, officials with the Department of Justice said Tuesday.
Nationwide, more than 2,300 suspected online child sex offenders were arrested after an operation was conducted by internet task forces.
In Washington, officials said 47 offenders sharing images of child sex abuse over peer-to-peer networks were identified and arrested.
"No child should ever have to endure sexual abuse," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a release Tuesday. "And yet, in recent years, certain forms of modern technology have facilitated the spread of child pornography and created greater incentives for its production.”
U.S. Attorney Annette L. Hayes said in the release that Washington state consistently ranks among the top states for the sharing of images of child rape and molestation.
If you have information about child abuse, act now by calling 911 or by filing a tip with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
More news from KIRO 7
- Community grieves after Monroe family dies in cabin fire
- Man shot outside North Seattle 7-Eleven
- Two killed in Auburn crash
- Clover Park to pay 7 figures to ex-administrator who opposed sex offender transfers
- Dancing FBI agent accused of accidental shooting arrested