State, Federal Agencies Assist in Investigating Dozens of Cyber Tips in Onslow County

Deputies with the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, along with multiple state and federal agencies investigated dozens of cyber tips related to child abuse. 

Deputies, along with agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations and Jacksonville Police Department conducted investigations into 49 cyber tips sent through the Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) System. 

Law enforcement went to 37 addresses, clearing some of the tips, however several investigations are ongoing. 

The cyber tips the Sheriff’s Office received ranged from sex crimes against children, child abuse, online sexual exploitation of children, and solicitation of sex acts of children online. 

“Protecting our most vulnerable citizens—our children—is a responsibility we all share,” said Onslow County Sheriff Chris Thomas. “Our office is committed to standing with families, schools, and community partners to ensure every child grows up safe, supported, and heard." 

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and is a time to recognize the importance of supporting families and communities in creating safe, nurturing environments for children to thrive. Every child deserves to grow up free from harm, and prevention starts with awareness, education, and action.  

Preventing child abuse requires a comprehensive approach including education and awareness within the community and for parents.  

Onslow County Peers Family Development Center offers parents guidance on effective parenting techniques, emotional management, and child development. Increase community awareness about the signs of child abuse, how to identify it, and the steps to take if abuse is suspected, and teach children about their rights, personal boundaries, and how to recognize inappropriate behavior.  

Mental Health Resources: Provide accessible mental health services for both parents and children. Addressing issues like mental health struggles or substance abuse can help reduce some of the pressures that lead to abusive behavior.

Community Support Networks: Foster support networks within communities where parents can find help, advice, and respite. This can combat the sense of isolation many parents face and reduce the risk of abuse. 

Mentorship Programs: Children who lack stable and positive role models can benefit from mentorship programs that connect them with caring adults who can offer guidance, emotional support, and positive reinforcement. 

Promote Healthy Relationships: Teaching both children and adults about healthy relationships, boundaries, and conflict resolution can reduce the likelihood of abusive situations. 

Safe spaces for children: Establish safe spaces in schools, community centers, and online where children can talk to trusted adults, express their concerns, and receive support. 

Online Safety Education: Given the rise of online threats, it’s important to educate children on how to protect themselves from online abuse, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content. 

Contact Peers Family Development Center at ocpeers1977@gmail.com or 910-123-4567.  

If a child is in immediate danger, call 911. You can also reach out to the Onslow County Department of Social Services at 910-455-4145.