In early 2021, investigators from Indianapolis, Indiana met with a confidential informant and his attorney regarding allegations of child exploitation. The informant, who had earlier proven reliable, disclosed information regarding an adult sexual partner who had bragged to him about child sexual abuse. The investigation, which started with one target, led to the discovery of additional men who not only had a sexual interest in children, but who also seemed to be offering up their own minor relatives for abusive encounters. The presentation will explore the intersections of child sexual exploitation, illegal drug use, and hook-up culture among CSAM traffickers. This session will also highlight the importance of securing multiple search warrants for digital evidence, the complexity of child interviews, and effectively working with confidential informants, co-conspirators, and accomplices.
Learning Objectives:
Develop investigative strategies for working with informants, including evaluating credibility and corroborating information provided,
Conduct investigations involving encrypted online media
Strategize ways to work with reluctant child witnesses and to protect children who are not ready or able to disclose abuse.
