San Bernardino Sheriff's Crimes Against Children Unit Honored for Protecting Kids

The specialized investigative team was recognized for its dedication to identifying offenders, rescuing victims, and dismantling exploitation networks.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:39am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a child's broken toy or personal item, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gravity and seriousness of crimes against children.The Crimes Against Children Detail's unwavering dedication to protecting vulnerable youth and dismantling exploitation networks is a critical safeguard for the community.Ontario Today

The Crimes Against Children Detail of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has been awarded the Shine a Light Award for its ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children and combat exploitation across the region. The specialized unit was honored during National Child Abuse Prevention Month for its work identifying offenders, rescuing victims, and dismantling networks involved in the exploitation of children.

Why it matters

The Crimes Against Children Detail plays a critical role in keeping children safe in San Bernardino County by investigating complex cases of child exploitation and abuse. Their recognition with the Shine a Light Award highlights the importance of dedicated law enforcement units focused on protecting the most vulnerable members of the community.

The details

The Crimes Against Children Detail handles thousands of cyber tips each year and conducts complex investigations using both traditional law enforcement methods and advanced digital forensics. These efforts have led to arrests and successful prosecutions of offenders. In addition to investigative work, the team provides education and outreach to law enforcement partners and the community to help identify and prevent child exploitation.

  • The 27th Annual Shine a Light on Child Abuse Prevention Awards Ceremony was held on April 2, 2026.
  • April is observed as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The players

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency that houses the Crimes Against Children Detail, which was honored for its work protecting vulnerable children and combating exploitation.

Crimes Against Children Detail

A specialized investigative unit within the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department that focuses on identifying offenders, rescuing victims, and dismantling networks involved in the exploitation of children.

Children's Network Officer Ashley Brooksher

Described the honorees as 'unsung heroes who go above and beyond their day-to-day responsibilities to ensure that the children in our County are safe.'

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What they’re saying

“These honorees demonstrate how simple acts of kindness can be life-changing for these children.”

— Ashley Brooksher, Children's Network Officer

What’s next

The Crimes Against Children Detail will continue its critical work investigating cases of child exploitation and abuse, as well as providing education and outreach to the community.

The takeaway

The recognition of the Crimes Against Children Detail with the Shine a Light Award underscores the vital role that dedicated law enforcement units play in protecting vulnerable children and combating the complex issue of child exploitation. Their professionalism, compassion, and unwavering integrity in handling these difficult cases are essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of children in San Bernardino County.