Supervisory Special Agent Federal Bureau of Investigation
This presentation focuses on the results of an empirical research study published in February 2023 by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit-3 regarding online undercover operations targeting child sex offenders (CSOs) who travel, better known as “travelers.” The presenters conducted interviews of online UC's with varied experience and an in-depth analysis of 74 successful traveler cases in the US from 2015-2020. Several statistically significant differences were identified in the types of CSOs that traveled based on persona creation (adult vs child.) With the help of a working group of experienced online UC's the research team generated best-practice operational strategies for online undercover case development, progression, and prosecution. The full published investigative guide for law enforcement will be provided to attendees (digital and print versions available.)
Learning Objectives:
Develop online undercover personas (adult vs child) to target specific types of child sex offenders
Assess undercover validation methods/ vetting; overcoming common defenses; grooming tactics; meeting dynamics and safety considerations in online undercover cases
Employ interview considerations, including ruses and use of the polygraph examination to identify potential contact offenders
