Law enforcement officials have arrested eight men in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut as part of a task force that targets individuals who use social media to exploit and prey on children.

Operation Guardian Angel

In March 2026, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force launched “Operation Guardian Angel,” in anticipation of the increased travel in New Jersey due to the FIFA World Cup. The initiative focused on identifying and capturing those who use online platforms to engage in illegal communication and activities with children.

The FBI – Newark Division, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations – Trenton Division, the U.S. Marshals, New Jersey State Police, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit, and Hamilton Police all provided support and resources.

Through the operation, the (ICAC) Task Force arrested the following suspects. Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta Marbrey said, “The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office remains committed to protecting children from online exploitation and ensuring that those who seek to victimize minors are held accountable.”

If you have any information about suspected improper contact by people communicating with children on the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children, contact the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit at (609) 989-6568 or the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force tip line at (888) 648-6007.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.