The Department of Justice has dismantled one of the most expansive online child abuse networks in history through “Operation Grayskull,” an effort that shut down four dark web sites trafficking in sexually exploitative material. Officials say the takedown prevented further harm and resulted in at least 18 convictions across multiple states.
Among them was William Spearman of Alabama, dubbed one of the world’s most significant purveyors of child sexual abuse content. His 2022 arrest—authorized at the highest levels of the FBI—led to a life sentence. Prosecutors said Spearman led a site with tens of thousands of users, storing vast quantities of illegal material.
“These sites weren’t just platforms; they were communities with leadership structures,” said DOJ Criminal Division chief Matthew Galeotti. Other convictions included Selwyn Rosenstein, sentenced to 28 years, and Matthew Garrell of North Carolina, who received 20 years for conspiracy and possession of grooming manuals.
FBI officials say the now-defunct websites hosted millions of files and once logged over 100,000 daily visits. Advanced encryption and user vetting made detection difficult, but agents worked for years to infiltrate the platforms.
DOJ officials emphasized the sites have not regenerated, calling the operation one of the department’s most effective child exploitation crackdowns ever.
Sources:
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CBS News
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