"Operation Volcano" Leads to 42 Arrests in Riverside County Child Exploitation Investigation

A major child exploitation investigation in Riverside County has led to dozens of arrests after a year-long multi-agency operation targeting suspected distributors of child abuse material.

The operation, known as “Operation Volcano,” resulted in 42 arrests, including suspects from Palm Springs and Bermuda Dunes.

According to authorities, investigators identified more than 500 suspected online distributors during the course of the investigation.

Law enforcement agencies also served 46 search warrants across Riverside County and identified several individuals considered high-risk offenders.

Officials say the investigation focused on online exploitation crimes involving child abuse material and involved multiple agencies working together throughout the county.

Authorities add that the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests could still be made.