What to Know
The internet, smartphones, and tablets have created a virtual playground for sex offenders wanting to communicate with minors. They often befriend vulnerable victims and groom them to get what they want. Many law enforcement officers dedicate themselves to stopping these crimes and putting the perpetrators behind bars.
The Kenner Police Department in Kenner, Louisiana, recently completed an undercover child exploitation operation that led to the arrest of 11 men, including a 75-year-old who legally changed his name to Santa Claus. What police learned serves as a cautionary tale to parents about the importance of keeping their kids safe.
Claus allegedly tried to connect with a 15-year-old boy.
According to a police release, a detective from the Kenner Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, ICAC/Cyber Crimes team, began an online conversation with Claus, posing as a 15-year-old boy. The 75-year-old man allegedly initiated the conversation with the minor on a dating site and discussed engaging in sexual acts. Claus, originally from New Orleans, reportedly agreed to travel to Kenner to meet the 15-year-old boy.
Claus arrived in Kenner ready to meet the victim.
When Claus arrived at the meeting place arranged by the detective, police took him into custody without incident. His arrest photo shows a man with white hair and a white beard dressed in red, just like the image of Santa Claus endearing to millions of children. Police called Claus’ appearance “alarming,” particularly since he allegedly intended to have sex with a minor.
Police urged parents to always keep their guard up around strangers and their children.
Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley shared his disgust about the entire operation in a news release.
“All these defendants are a danger to our youth and society, we preach daily about the vulnerability of our children on social media and gaming platforms and now we have arrested a person who dresses up as Santa Clause inviting parents to drop their young children in his lap for photo ops, this is a cautionary tale to parents and guardians” Conley wrote.
According to the news release, the operation resulted in 11 arrests, 10 outstanding arrest warrants, 37 criminal charges, and 21 individuals facing child exploitation charges.
Residents appreciated the police department’s hard work.
Knowing local law enforcement wants the best for area kids meant a lot to residents who lauded police online.
“Thankful for the protection KP Team provides. Parents be careful with your kids unsupervised time online, or spending time in others house without you,” a follower wrote.
This person agreed, writing, “Thank you from the children . Thank you for guarding and protecting their precious minds.”
“It’s something every day involving children….LEAVE THE KIDS ALONEEEEEEE,” another person wrote.
“Anyone who uses the anonymity of the internet to exploit children should understand one thing—we are there too. Our investigators will continue to identify these predators, build strong cases, and bring them to justice before they have the opportunity to victimize a child,” Conley added.
