FY24 Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program

The Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (KYICAC) serves the entire state.  Nearly all youth in Kentucky have access to a smartphone or a computer and almost all teens, age 13-17, admit that they are on their phone almost constantly.  There are 10,514 offenders currently on the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry.  These numbers represent target population segments within Kentucky, but the internet knows no boundaries, compelling the KYICAC to collaborate with agencies outside their jurisdiction. The KYICAC focuses on training and equipping investigators at Kentucky State Police (KSP) and affiliate agencies who can react to complaints and pursue proactive investigations.  The forensic labs continually require updated tools and the training to use them.  Schools and community groups constantly request online safety presentations to educate children, as well as parents.  Law enforcement and the judiciary need instruction to ensure that they are up to date on best practices and current statutes.  Offenders will always find ways to exploit children using emerging technology – it is the KY ICAC mission to be proficient with the means to actively pursue these offenders.  Established reporting measures allow this task force to evaluate the effectiveness of the previous years’ efforts and project for the future.  The measures include easily quantifiable categories: presentations made/number of attendees; complaints received / investigations initiated; arrests; training sessions provided and training sessions attended; etc.  Federal funding will enable the task force to train and equip investigators, examiners, and prosecutors; maintain cooperative relationships with local, state, and federal partners; and educate the public on appropriate internet usage.  The KYICAC will continue to work on this mission with no significant changes planned for the upcoming grant cycle.