Twelve alleged predators, including a youth program coordinator with access to vulnerable children, were caught red-handed attempting to sexually exploit minors during a multi-agency Christmas week sting operation that exposed the horrifying reality of online child predation in New Jersey. The successful operation, dubbed “Operation Bad Santa,” was a coordinated effort by federal, state, and local law enforcement to remove dangerous individuals from the community just as the holiday season began.
Story Highlights
- Operation Bad Santa arrested 12 men ages 26-65 for attempting to lure children for sexual activity through social media.
- Cameron Ameye, a Program Coordinator at Passaic County Community College’s Youth Rise program, was among those arrested.
- Multi-agency operation involved FBI, Homeland Security, and nine local police departments across Middlesex County.
- Undercover officers posed as minors online, leading suspects to a sting house where arrests occurred without incident.
Multi-Agency Operation Protects Children During Holiday Season
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced the successful completion of Operation Bad Santa, a coordinated sting operation that removed dangerous predators from communities during the holiday season. The operation ran from December 8-15, 2025, with undercover officers from the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit posing as minors on social media platforms. Suspects who engaged in inappropriate conversations and arranged meetings were arrested upon arriving at an undercover residence.
The investigation demonstrates law enforcement’s commitment to protecting our children from online predators who exploit social media platforms to target vulnerable minors. Chief Frank LoSacco of East Brunswick Police called the operation “a beacon of hope,” emphasizing how federal, state, and local agencies worked together to safeguard communities. This coordinated approach represents the kind of proactive policing that conservative families have long demanded to protect traditional family values.
Teacher Among 12 Busted In 'Operation Bad Santa' Child Sex Sting | 99.3 The Fox https://t.co/YbCZbiFTY0 pic.twitter.com/RQimRq5amm
— 99.3 the Fox (@rockwiththefox) December 26, 2025
Disturbing Arrest of Youth Program Professional
Among the arrested individuals, Cameron Ameye, 33, of Bloomingdale, stands out as particularly concerning given his role as Program Coordinator at Passaic County Community College’s Youth Rise program. His position provided him access to young people, making his alleged crimes especially disturbing for parents who trust educational institutions with their children’s safety. The arrest highlights the need for thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of individuals in positions of authority over minors.
The other arrestees represent a cross-section of the community, ranging in age from 26 to 65 and coming from towns throughout central New Jersey including New Brunswick, East Brunswick, Edison, and Old Bridge. All face serious charges including luring, attempting to endanger the welfare of a child, and distributing obscene material to minors. These charges carry significant penalties that reflect society’s determination to protect children from sexual predators.
Federal Partnership Strengthens Child Protection Efforts
FBI Newark Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy emphasized the federal government’s unwavering commitment to child protection, noting how Operation Bad Santa exemplifies effective multi-jurisdictional cooperation. The operation involved the FBI, Homeland Security, East Brunswick Police, Edison Police, Highland Park Police, New Brunswick Police, Monroe Police, Piscataway Police, Sayreville Police, South River Police, and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.
This collaborative approach builds on the Department of Justice’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, established in 1998 to combat online child exploitation. Under President Trump’s administration, Americans can expect continued strong support for these critical law enforcement operations that put children’s safety first. The investigation remains active, and authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the ICAC Unit at 732-745-3300.
Watch the report: Inside Operation Bad Santa | How an Undercover Sting Led to 12 Arrests
Sources:
- Multiple Arrests Made In Middlesex County’s Operation Bad Santa
- Asbury Park Man Charged in Operation Bad Santa for Alleged Online Child Luring
- Operation Bad Santa Nets 12 Child Predator Arrests in Middlesex County
