Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Justice has significantly reduced funding and training resources for law enforcement agencies investigating child sexual exploitation, moves that prosecutors and investigators say are hindering efforts to pursue cases and protect vulnerable children.
Among the most consequential cuts is the cancellation of the 2025 National Law Enforcement Training on Child Exploitation, an annual conference scheduled for June in Washington that provides technical instruction to federal and state prosecutors and investigators. Law enforcement sources said the event was canceled after failing to receive DOJ approval, with no public explanation offered.
The reductions were implemented shortly after President Donald Trump began his second term and have introduced new “austerity” rules requiring prosecutors to justify travel, training, and even meetings with victims as core mission expenses. Multiple officials working in child exploitation cases said requests are routinely denied, limiting coordination and preparation for trials.
Investigators with Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task forces said training is especially critical as offenders increasingly use artificial intelligence and new online platforms to target minors. Several officials also reported that annual DOJ grants to ICAC units—typically awarded each October—have not been paid, forcing departments to cut personnel and delay software and equipment purchases.
Sources said regular coordination meetings among DOJ officials, ICAC commanders, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have also been halted. The Justice Department did not respond to requests for comment, though it has previously said it remains committed to prosecuting crimes against children while ensuring efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
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