Marion County Sex Predator Sting Arrests 48
In late July 2025, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with multiple local, state, and federal agencies, conducted a six day undercover sting known as “Operation Seek and Ye Shall Find Out.” This resulted in 48 men arrested as suspected child predators, according to Fox 35 Orlando.
The suspects believed they were chatting with minors between the ages of 13 and 15 on apps like Snapchats and dating platforms. After sending inappropriate messages, many arranged to meet the child in person. When the suspected predator showed up, they were greeted by law enforcement instead.
Who Was Arrested?
Many of the suspects brought guns, drugs, and condoms with them to the meeting location, with one suspect having crack cocaine, meth, and an AR-15 rifle in his vehicle. According to Sheriff Billy Woods, those arrests show the extent that some individuals will go and how dangerous these situations can be.
The men arrested were not all locals to Orlando. Some traveled from other places like Mexico, El Salvador, Jamaica, India, and Dubai. Six suspects were in the United States illegally, and immigration holds have been placed on them. Some of the people arrested were more surprising, with one being a University of Florida student on a visa.
Serious Charges Filed
The arrested men now face a variety of serious charges. Some include:
- Traveling to meet a minor for illegal sexual conduct
- Sending harmful content to a minor
- Human trafficking
- Using technology to contact a child for illegal activity
- Drug and weapons charges
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier spoke about the arrests, describing the crimes as “heinous” and that they will not be tolerated. He also said that alleged predators arrested will go away for “as long as possible” and those that traveled to the U.S. illegally will be deported.
A Warning for Parents
This entire operation serves as a reminder to families that child predators often use their phones and various apps to reach out to children. Sheriff Woods urged parents to check their child’s phone regularly, be aware of who their children are speaking to, and be involved in their children’s online lives.
Call The Umansky Law Firm if You Were Arrested in a Sex Predator Sting
At The Umansky Law Firm, we take criminal charges involving children seriously. If you are seeking legal guidance after being arrested or charged, our dedicated team is here to help. With decades of experience in criminal law, we know how to protect your rights and help you navigate the legal system, especially when it is part of a high-profile sting like this one. Contact an attorney at The Umansky Law Firm today and let us represent you in court.
