[Douglas County, CO] — The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the successful launch and immediate impact of the 23rd Judicial District Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit. Since becoming fully operational just two months ago, this specialized unit has already completed five arrests and served three search warrants, delivering immediate results in the regional fight against the exploitation of minors.
The task force was established to apprehend predators who utilize digital platforms to solicit sexual acts and exploit children. By shifting the focus to a sustained, collaborative regional model, law enforcement is sending a definitive message: there is no safe harbor for those who exploit the vulnerable in our community.
A Unified Front: Regional Collaboration The task force’s rapid success is a direct result of a dedicated, multi-jurisdictional team that pools local expertise into one cohesive unit. The core of this operation is powered by:
· Dedicated Investigative Strength: The unit is anchored by one full-time detective from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), one from the Castle Rock Police Department (CRPD), one from the Parker Police Department (PPD), and even a part time Investigator from the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
· Specialized Legal Oversight: The 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office has designated a Senior Deputy District Attorney for ICAC and Human Trafficking who provides seamless integration between active investigations and the prosecutorial process.
· Intelligence-Led Policing: The team is bolstered by part-time support from a civilian crime analyst, whose digital forensic insights allow detectives to identify and track offenders more efficiently.
Comprehensive Enforcement and Support The launch of the task force has been supported by a broad network of specialized resources to ensure every operation is executed with precision:
· Surveillance and Tactical Support: The DCSO Impact Unit serves as the primary surveillance and arrest team, while the DCSO SORT (Special Operations Response Team) manages secure transport during ICAC operations.
· Expert Training: Foundational training for the unit was facilitated by the Covenant Rescue Group and Legacy Relief Project, with additional technical expertise provided by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office CHEEZO Unit. Regional partners from the 23rd Judicial District, including the Elizabeth Police Department, Limon Police Department, and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, attended the joint training and have increased their own efforts fighting against child exploitation.
A Message from Leadership:
“The successful launch of this task force is a testament to what we can achieve when we remove jurisdictional boundaries,” said Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly. “By bringing together the best investigators and pooling our resources and expertise, we are able to remove dangerous predators from our streets and provide a safer environment for our children and the community at large.”
“This is yet another example of how our community sets itself apart through collaboration and coordination of our law enforcement resources and expertise towards the larger goal of protecting the most vulnerable in our jurisdiction,” said District Attorney George Brauchler. “For those who would visit their lascivious desires on our children, this ICAC Unit exists to get you and bring you to justice. There ARE sharks in the water and we are them.”
“Protecting children is one of the most fundamental responsibilities we have as leaders, and in today’s world, that means confronting threats that exist online, far beyond our neighborhoods,” said Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon. “Through this Task Force, Douglas County is drawing a clear line: we will not allow predators to operate in the shadows. We are investing in the people, technology and partnerships necessary to find them, stop them and hold them accountable.”
The Multi-Agency ICAC Task Force remains committed to its mission of proactive investigation and relentless pursuit of those who seek to harm the children of Douglas County and the surrounding region.