The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, working closely with multiple law enforcement partners, has announced additional arrests in the ongoing undercover operation aimed at identifying and removing online child predators from our communities.
Earlier this month, the first phase of the operation resulted in several arrests. Since then, the JCSO Investigation Unit has taken over this case, continuing efforts to track down and apprehend individuals seeking to exploit minors online. These most recent arrests highlight the continued dedication of investigators to protect children and hold offenders accountable.
Arrested and charged were:
Daniel Joseph Hedges
(1) Use of computer/device to solicit a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct
(2) Unlawful use of a two-way communication device to further the commission of a felony
Angelo Demont Lawson
(1) Use of computer/device to solicit a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct
(2) Unlawful use of a two-way communication device to further the commission of a felony
Deashon Markeith Fields
(1) Use of computer/device to solicit a minor to engage in unlawful sexual conduct
(2) Unlawful use of a two-way communication device to further the commission of a felony
During the initial investigation, Fields began communicating with who he believed was a minor. Despite arrests already being made in this operation, he continued sending messages and maintained contact. Eventually, he arranged to meet the individual in a nearby county, where he was taken into custody. Additional charges against Fields are expected as the case moves forward.
Sheriff Donald L. Edenfield emphasized the importance of operations like these:
“Jackson County, we will work hard to continue to protect our children. No harm against our children will be tolerated under any circumstance. Jackson County should always be a safe space for our children, both online or offline. Child predators: we will find you, arrest you, and you will be held accountable.”
This investigation remains active and ongoing. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Unit, along with its law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue every lead to ensure those who target children are brought to justice.
