The Decatur Police Department announced the results of “Home Alone,” a 10-day sting operation targeting individuals who sought to engage in illegal activity with minors.

The operation was led by the department’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit and supported by multiple law enforcement divisions.

Undercover officers posed as minors across various social media platforms, communicating with individuals who believed they were speaking with underage children.

Several suspects arranged in-person meetings for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sex acts, and when they arrived at the agreed-upon location, they were met by law enforcement and taken into custody.

The multi-unit operation involved the ICAC Unit, Vice Narcotics Unit, Criminal Investigation Division, Patrol Division and SWAT team.

As the investigation progressed, officers also received information about an adult male who had filmed a fully nude underage child.

The suspect in that case, identified as Jalen Nunn, was located, and warrants for the production of child sexual abuse material were executed. He was taken into custody.

By the end of the operation on December 5, a total of seven individuals had been arrested and charged with 16 offenses. All were booked into the Morgan County Jail.

Investigators noted that additional individuals failed to appear at the arranged meeting times, and the operation remains ongoing. More charges could be filed as law enforcement continues to work.

The department also issued reminders for parents to stay vigilant about their children’s online activity, including who they communicate with and what content they access.

Officers urged families to discuss the dangers of sharing photographs or personal information with individuals they have never met, even when an online account appears to belong to another child.

Law enforcement officials further warned that agencies across the country have documented an increase in sextortion cases, particularly those involving young boys who are being targeted by offenders outside the United States.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].