Rep. Buchanan Praises Sarasota Sex-Predator Sting

May 15, 2012

Urges Passage of “No Parole for Sex Offenders Act”

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep Vern Buchanan, R-FL, today praised Sarasota authorities for the arrests of 31 alleged sex predators, saying the disturbing prevalence of the crime underscores the need for legislation to deny parole to convicted offenders.

“We need to do everything possible to keep these predators off the streets,” Buchanan said, noting that a Department of Justice study has shown that sex offenders have a 43% rearrest rate.

The six-day sting, dubbed “Operation Intercept,” targeted individuals who responded to Internet-based ads, ultimately agreeing to come to a location in Sarasota County with the intent to have sex with a child or children.   

“I commend the Sarasota Sherriff’s Office and the entire Florida law enforcement community for their outstanding work in getting these sexual deviants off the streets,” said Buchanan, a member of the Congressional Caucus on Missing, Exploited, and Runaway Children.  “These arrests serve as a stark reminder that we cannot let down our guard against violent predators who seek to harm our children.”

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office conducted the sting in collaboration with  the Bradenton Police Department, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Sarasota Police Department, Venice Police Department, North Port Police Department, the State Attorney’s Office and other members of the Central Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Buchanan is a co-sponsor of federal legislation, the “No Parole for Sex Offenders Act,” prohibiting parole for any sexual predator convicted of a crime against a minor. “One of the most heinous crimes against society is the sexual molestation of children,” said Buchanan.  “Sex offenders that prey on our children are despicable and should not be let out of jail early.”

Last month, Buchanan presented the inaugural 13^th Congressional District Law Enforcement Awards, recognizing Florida law enforcement officials for exceptional achievement.