Online child sexual exploitation and abuse does not discriminate. Every child who uses the internet is at risk. It’s never too early to start having open conversations about online safety with the people you care about. Together We Can Stop Online Child Exploitation™. To learn ways to #KeepKidsSafe online, visit know2protect.gov.
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Since its August launch, the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group has intensified efforts to combat human trafficking across Illinois. This multiagency partnership unifies the resources of the Illinois State Police, Decatur Police, and McLean County Sheriff's Office, all made possible through the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.
We are proud of ITEG's dedication to protection and enforcement.
nowdecatur.com/2025/08/13/231139/
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REPOST | Illinois State Police
The Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Group recently led a human trafficking demand suppression operation in Forsyth, Illinois, resulting in five arrests over a two-day period (August 21–22, 2025).
This operation targeted individuals seeking to engage in commercial sex acts and was part of ISP’s ongoing, multifaceted efforts to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals across Illinois.
The operation was made possible through the collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group, East Central Illinois Drug Task Force, North Central Narcotics Task Force, Task Force 6, Vermilion Metropolitan Enforcement Group, ISP SWAT, and the Macon County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Human trafficking involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to compel a person into commercial sex acts, labor, or services against their will. Recognizing the signs is key to prevention.
➡️ Learn more: National Human Trafficking Hotline – Recognizing the Signs
📞 If you suspect human trafficking, call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733 (BEFREE).
You can also email ISP.CrimeTips@illinois.gov
to share information.
The individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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The trafficker is often NOT a stranger.
▶️ Watch the video below!
⚠️ Content WARNING: This video is a powerful awareness piece on child exploitation and abuse.
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🚨 On Sunday, Sept. 28, the Effingham Police Department responded to a report of an unknown male taking photographs of females in the women’s restroom at Golden Corral, 1102 Avenue of Mid America.
We are grateful to the Effingham Police Department for their swift action in apprehending the suspect. This serves as an important reminder to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help keep our community safe.
#CommunitySafety #StayAlert #57Over70TaskForceUpdate and clarification in the case of the man recording women while they used the restroom at Golden Corral in Effingham, Illinois--- The additional serious charges of S/Assault to a minor and CP charges are unrelated to the Golden Corral incident. I've been informed the charges allegedly stem from video recorded by Dylan S. Ritchel, where he allegedly assaulted an approximately 6-month-old infant and reportedly filmed the incident.
The additional charges pertaining to minors are not due to any minors in the restroom at the time of the illegal recording at the restaurant.
People in the community are expressing extreme gratitude for the women stepping forward and making sure the man was caught for his alleged acts. They did this even after the man was allowed by the manager to exit the restaurant from an alternate door and attempt to get away.
I interviewed the first victim that was reportedly recorded by Dylan Ritchel at Golden Corral while she used the restroom. In our interview, she shared the shocking behavior by the manager, as she witnessed it, after the man was caught red-handed filming women in the restroom. You can find that story on this page along with a video taken by a young lady who caught Ritchel filming her under the stall.
Our thoughts are with everyone involved.
Original story below.
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Altamont (Illinois) man has been arrested for unauthorized video taping of females using the restroom at the Golden Corral in Effingham, Illinois.
The Effingham police department has released a press release about this incident. Just a heads up, these are very disturbing charges.
On Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 1:11 P.M., Effingham Police Department Officers responded to Golden Corral, 1102 Ave of Mid America, for a report of an unknown male taking photographs of females in the women’s restroom. Initial reports stated the male had already fled the establishment. Officers, assisted by Effingham County Sheriff’s Deputies, located the male minutes after arrival and took him into custody.
The male was identified as Dylan S. Ritchel, 22, Altamont. Ritchel was booked into the Effingham County Jail on the following charges:
- 2 Counts – Unauthorized Video Recording and Live Video Transmission – Class 4 Felony
- 2 Counts – Disorderly Conduct – Class C Misdemeanor
After investigating further, Detectives discovered additional evidence of criminal activity and added these additional charges:
• Aggravated Criminal S/assault of a Minor – Class X Felony
• Manufacture of C.P. – Class X Felony
• Possession of C.P. – Class 2 Felony
Ritchel will have his initial court appearance on Tuesday morning for all listed charges. The hearing will be held to determine eligibility for continued detention under the Pre-Trial Fairness Act.
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I wonder if he is the same one that took pictures at monasteries school .
If you see something suspicious, say something. Reporting could be the difference between freedom and continued exploitation.
📞 Call: 1-888-373-7888 | Emergencies: 911 | Effingham PD: 217-347-0774
💻 Text: “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733
💬 Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat
Stay alert. Speak up. Protect our children in our community.
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Together We Can
End Human Trafficking
In Effingham County, One Person At A Time
Be the Change. Stay Connected.
Stay informed on the latest news, resources, and volunteer opportunities with the 57/70 Task Force.
EDUCATE. CONNECT. SUPPORT.
Our mission is to educate the community for purpose of spotting, reporting, and ultimately eliminating human trafficking in Effingham County, one person at a time.
Survivor Stories
Each story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of survivors who have overcome unimaginable challenges. Journey with us as survivors bravely share their lived experiences, shedding light on the complexities of human trafficking and the strength required to break free from its chains. These stores are not just tales of survival; they are beacons of hope, illustrating the transformative power of courage, support, and resilience.
News & Events
Your source for updates on 57/70 Task Force’s ongoing efforts against human trafficking is here. Discover the latest initiatives, collaborations, and success stores as we work towards a world free from exploitation. Stay informed on awareness campaigns, legislative wins, and community events, joining us in the collective effort to eradicate human trafficking and ensure the dignity and freedom of every individual.
Education & Online Training
We offer a range of educational resources and online training modules designed to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and equip our community with the tools to identify and prevent trafficking. Join us in the pursuit of knowledge as we strive to build a world where education becomes a powerful weapon against exploitation, fostering a society committed to eradicating this heinous crime.