PORTLAND, Maine — The FBI has arrested Joseph Maile, a man from Presque Isle, Maine, as part of a massive child sex trafficking sting that resulted in over 200 arrests across the United States.
Maile is accused of attempting to sex traffic a child and entice a minor through social media, where he allegedly offered money to underage individuals in exchange for sexual acts.
The operation, conducted over the span of just five days, led to 205 arrests and the rescue of 115 children. According to officials, the suspects include a Minnesota State Trooper, a former Metro D.C. police officer, and an illegal immigrant from Mexico.
“These are online predators,” said Attorney General Pam Bondi. “Children and their families now have a chance to heal. In just five days, 115 victims were helped.”
The FBI emphasized the continued threat posed by online exploitation and urged the public to remain vigilant in protecting minors from such predators.
