Dec. 28, 1999

Utah is forming a crime-fighting force to combat cyber-crime. With the help of federal funds, the task force will investigate and prosecute Internet crimes against children. News Specialist Jed Boal has the story.

The fastest growing segment of crime against kids happens right here on the Internet. Criminals store pornographic pictures of children, or use the internet to connect with children.

It has replaced the mall or the playground as the primary place for a pick-up. So, the U.S. Justice Department awarded 10 grants to law enforcement agencies across the country. Utah picked up $300,000.

Assistant Attorney General Craig Barlow and members of his staff received special training to flush out pedophiles.

Craig Barlow/Asst. Attorney General: The nature of the crime is the same as the kind of thing I prosecute today-- that's adults that see children as sexual objects and sexual partners."

So just how easy is it for pedophiles to pick their prey online? A particular web site had nearly 4,000 chat rooms open with hundreds of people chatting online. They do everything from exchange photos to files to names.

In the anonimity of the net, sexual predators disguise themselves, pick their targets, then get away.

Craig Barlow: "These folks will set up a site, operate the illegal site, change the name, close down, and move."

The task force will also work on community education. Many parents are not aware of the dangers, but the Attorney General wants to let them know.

The task force will work with agencies across the state to help crack cases throughout Utah.