Albuquerque, NM –

In a decisive blow against online predators, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez announced the successful conclusion of Operation Overwatch. This multi-agency undercover operation, spearheaded by the New Mexico Department of Justice (NMDOJ), resulted in the arrest of eight individuals accused of attempting to engage in illegal sexual activity with minors.

A Concerted Effort to Protect New Mexico’s Children

Operation Overwatch wasn’t a solo act. The NMDOJ agents played a critical role, but their success hinged on the invaluable support of several law enforcement partners. These included the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), Albuquerque Police Department (APD), Santa Fe Police Department (SFPD), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Through meticulous online investigations and coordinated arrests, this united front effectively disrupted the activities of these dangerous individuals.

Predators Lured into a Web of Justice

The operation employed a strategic approach. NMDOJ agents created decoy accounts on various online platforms frequented by predators, including Kik, SkiptheGames, MocoSpace, Discord, Grindr, Fetlife, and Sniffies. These accounts posed as underage users, some even portraying desperate parents willing to “offer” their children for sex in exchange for money. The unsuspecting predators took the bait and engaged in grotesque chats with who they thought were underage minors.

“Operation Overwatch is a testament to the expertise and unwavering dedication of our team and our esteemed law enforcement partners,” declared Attorney General Torrez. “This coordinated effort exemplifies our collective commitment to protecting New Mexico’s children. We will not relent in our pursuit of these predators. They will be held accountable for their actions, ensuring the safety of our communities.”

“One of the most horrific crimes the FBI investigates is child exploitation; it’s the reason we pursue these predators so aggressively and in tandem with our law enforcement partners,” said Raul Bujanda, FBI Albuquerque special agent in charge. “Combining resources through such operations sends a unified message that exploiting society’s most vulnerable will not be tolerated, offenders will be caught, and the fullest extent of the law will be applied.” 

“HSI is unwavering in its dedication to working tirelessly with our local, state, and federal partners to protect children,” said Jason T. Stevens, acting special agent in charge of HSI El Paso. “This enforcement action has effectively removed harmful child predators from our communities, sending a powerful message to those seeking to harm children for their satisfaction. Undoubtedly, it has spared some children from the anguish of being sexually victimized.” 

Sheriff John Allen expressed his strong support for the collaborative efforts during Operation Overwatch, stating, “This operation underscores the critical role of our partnership with federal and local agencies in protecting the vulnerable from exploitation. The arrests demonstrate our collective commitment to proactive law enforcement and community safety. By working together, we are more effectively deterring predatory behavior and ensuring a safer environment for all.” 

One Predator Still at Large: The Hunt Continues

The press release concludes by mentioning Stephen Joseph Rittereiser, the sole suspect who remains at large. It should clearly state that a warrant has been issued for his arrest on child solicitation charges and encourage anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward. Law enforcement is actively looking for Rittereiser.

Law enforcement urges parents, guardians, and associates to notify police if children are being targeted by these people.

Below, you can see a webpage AG Torrez’s office put together summarizing “Operation Overwatch.” Here, you’ll find the names of all eight people who were arrested, the one person who hasn’t been caught, and the criminal charges. You can also check out the slideshow from AG Torrez’s press conference. You can also watch the presser on YouTube.

Bynewsdesk

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