A Disney World costume designer and forty other people have been arrested in a sex sting targeting child predators in Polk County, Florida.
During a week-long operation, deputies arrested 41 suspects who were looking to have sex with kids. This was the largest operation in Polk county’s history.
Of the forty-one suspects, there were 40 men and one woman. All of the suspects responded to fake ads posted by undercover detectives posing as minors on the web sites Craigslist and Backpage.
According to Sheriff Grady Judd, the suspects participated in graphic conversations with the detectives, and eventually agreed to meet up with the “kids.” Deputies hid in the decoy house, waiting to arrest each person who walked in.
“We had those who brought condoms. Those who brought handcuffs. Those who brought padded handcuffs…” said Sheriff Judd. “One even arrived with chicken nuggets.”
A notable suspect is James Walker, who is a Disney World costume designer. Investigators reported that Walker came to the decoy house twice. The first time he got scared by sheriff’s deputies working a burglary nearby.
“He was so intrigued, he came back later. And those were his words,” Judd said.
Each of the 41 suspects will have a day in court, but as far as Sheriff Grady Judd is concerned, 41 child predators are no longer on the streets.
“Despite the fact our detectives have conducted nine of these operations since 2006; despite the extensive media coverage when we talk about the numerous arrests; despite the fact we make no secret about putting suspects in jail — there are those who continue to travel to Polk County to have sex with a child,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “Make no mistake; we will continue to make protecting our children our No. 1 priority. We will continue to conduct these investigations, and we will continue to arrest those who would travel to Polk County to harm children.”
When Siera isn’t helping plan Disney vacations or sharing the latest Disney news, you can find her spreading magic on Facebook and Twitter. Are you thinking about a Disney vacation? Siera, a Disney travel specialist, can help you. Plus, can receive up to a $50 in-room credit! Contact her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or 734-771-1290!
Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
Get started below for your FREE No Obligation Quote.
Book With our friends at Destinations to Travel
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!