Over 50 people are facing charges in Massachusetts as the result of a State Police investigation dubbed "Operation Firewall."
Authorities said the suspects were involved in production, possession and sharing child sexual abuse material, child enticement and other illegal activities.
"Over the course of three days, Operation Firewall resulted in arrests across 38 Massachusetts communities. Troopers executed 34 residential search warrants, seized 229 devices, and arrested 56 individuals ranging in age from 18 to 75. The defendants will face charges connected to child pornography, child enticement, as well as charges stemming from outstanding warrants for assault and battery of a child, rape of a child, and failure to register with the Sex Offender Registry Board.
Berkshire County DA Tim Shagrue told reporters, "“I am thankful to the Massachusetts State Police for dedicating resources to this past week’s operation. In the Berkshires, we have been running similar operations to this one since I started in office in 2023. This operation was exceptionally successful thanks to the statewide partnerships and dedication of resources. I began my career as a prosecutor in the Child Abuse Unit. This work has stuck with me and protecting and advocating for children is something I dedicated myself to. This kind of work is not easy. It is time-consuming, taxing, and requires an extraordinary level of care and precision; however, the results, keeping our children and our communities safe, make this difficult work well worth it. I commend all the State Troopers and detectives, and local law enforcement that supported them, on the success of their mission. The Berkshire District Attorney’s Office is dedicated to prosecuting cases of child abuse and exploitation to the greatest extent of the law.”
State Police said the investigation reflects the determination of law enforcement and prosecutors statewide to pursue those who victimize children.
(Photo: Massachusetts State Police)