The Benton Police Department has joined with the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to help in the fight against child predators.   Chief Kirk Lane recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the State Police regarding this program. 

    The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) program was developed in 1998 and is administered through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) of the Department of Justice.  The ICAC helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to cyber enticement and child pornography cases.  It also encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. 

    The mission of the ICAC is to provide a comprehensive multi-agency response to identify, investigate, apprehend, and successfully prosecute offenders who use the internet, online communication systems, or other computer technologies to sexually exploit children.  It also provides proactive tools, resources, and information to educate parents, teachers, and children about internet safety and victimization prevention. 

    The Benton Police Department will be part of the Arkansas Region, which is one of 61 task forces nationwide, and is comprised of various law enforcement and other agencies throughout the state.  By joining this program it will allow our officers to be able to investigate first hand these types of crimes without having to contact the state police or another outside agency for assistance.