ABC4 Takes Inside Look at the Takedown of a Child Predator

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SALT LAKE CITY, (ABC4 )Utah — Equipped with weapons, packed cars, and tuned radios, the Utah Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force was back on the job in a Riverton neighborhood, responding to a serious investigation.

ABC4 was on the ground with the team as they swiftly approached a local home. After knocking on the door and announcing their presence, the officers proceeded to forcibly enter when the door went unanswered. They explained that while their operations are structured, no two are the same.

“It’s about being prepared for any situation, even when it doesn’t go as planned,” explained Utah ICAC Commander Sete Aulai. “We train for the unexpected, even though this is something we do regularly.”

The team was investigating a 26-year-old man accused of possessing explicit images of children, following a tip from the Wisconsin ICAC. However, upon arriving at the house, the suspect wasn’t home. The task force quickly shifted tactics, sending officers to track down the man while other investigators moved forward with their search.

In the meantime, investigators utilized the Mobile Forensic Lab (MFL), a vital tool for sifting through electronic devices. “We’re able to analyze hard drives, phones, and more right on-site,” Aulai said. “This is where the digital evidence begins to tell its story.”

Officers later located the 26-year-old, bringing him back in handcuffs. The investigation revealed that he had been contacting minors, pressuring them into sharing explicit images. One of the victims was an 11-year-old boy from Wisconsin. Authorities confirmed that the most recent image was received only hours before the suspect’s arrest.

For the officers working these cases, the emotional toll of dealing with such disturbing content is real. But Commander Aulai emphasized the importance of staying focused on the mission. “You have to push through the negative to keep fighting for the good,” he said.

The Utah ICAC task force is one of 61 nationwide, each collaborating with State Attorney General’s Offices to combat online predators. Utah’s ICAC has seen a significant rise in cases, with online child exploitation reports increasing by 450% during the COVID-19 pandemic. This upward trend has continued in recent years.

“There is no typical profile for this type of crime,” Aulai noted. “It can be anyone—teachers, clergy, even law enforcement officers.”

In the case of the 26-year-old from Riverton, he now faces 10 felony charges. Commander Aulai concluded with a stern message for those involved in similar illegal activities: “If you’re participating in these crimes, you’re not going to escape justice much longer. It’s time to stop and get help, because our team is relentlessly pursuing you.”

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