Operation Unsportsmanlike Conduct: A Stark County Child Sex Sting Results in Seven Arrests
In a significant law enforcement initiative aimed at curbing child exploitation, seven men were arrested during a two-day undercover operation in Stark County, Ohio. Dubbed “Operation Unsportsmanlike Conduct,” this operation was executed from July 31 to August 1, 2025, and focused on apprehending individuals allegedly intending to engage in sexual activities with minors. The collaborative effort involved the Cleveland Division of the FBI, the Ohio Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and various local police departments.
The operation underscored the ongoing commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect children and ensure the safety of communities. According to officials, the intention behind the sting was to target those who might travel specifically to engage in illicit acts involving minors. The scope of the operation was significant, enlisting officers from multiple jurisdictions, including Streetsboro, Toledo, Louisville, Perry, Beachwood, and Massillon, as well as the sheriff’s offices in Stark and Portage counties.
Among the seven arrested were men from varying backgrounds and locations. The suspects, aged between 24 and 66, were charged with serious offenses including importuning, which refers to soliciting a minor for sexual conduct, attempt to commit unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, and possessing criminal tools deemed necessary for engaging in such activities. Notably, the operation resulted in the apprehension of two individuals reportedly residing in the country illegally, emphasizing the complexity and seriousness of the issues at hand.
The individuals arrested include:
- Edmund Starr (38) of Broadview Heights
- Ryan Strouse (37) of Massillon
- Michael Chaffee (66) of Wadsworth
- Jacob Bauer (48) of Massillon
- Andres Gallardo (44) of Cleveland, who was charged with additional offenses including attempt to commit rape.
- Mustafa Cakar (24) of Pittsburgh
- Alberto Perez (28) of Canton
During their arraignment, bonds for the suspects varied significantly. Strouse, Bauer, and Chaffee each faced a bond of $15,000, which Bauer and Chaffee managed to post, while Starr’s bond was set considerably higher at $100,000. Gallardo’s bond was set at $50,000, and Cakar and Perez each had a bond of $25,000.
The judicial measures taken during the arraignment illustrate the serious nature of the allegations. For instance, the steep bond set for Starr suggests a recognition of the potential risk he posed, further reinforcing the necessity of interventions in such cases.
Importantly, the operation’s outcomes extend beyond the immediate arrests. The suspects, particularly Cakar and Perez, have been referred to the Department of Homeland Security’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for deportation procedures due to their illegal status in the country. This aspect of the operation highlights the multifaceted approach taken by law enforcement in dealing with individuals engaged in such predatory behavior.
Public sentiment regarding these arrests has been one of relief but also grave concern regarding the persistent threats facing children today. Local advocacy groups often emphasize the importance of community vigilance and preventive measures, urging parents and guardians to engage in open dialogues about online safety and appropriate behaviors with regards to child protection. The success of such undercover stings illustrates the ongoing need for robust law enforcement efforts, as well as public awareness of the risks posed by child predators.
In conclusion, “Operation Unsportsmanlike Conduct” serves as a critical reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by children and the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement agencies. As the legal proceedings unfold for those arrested, the operation stands as a testament to the continued vigilance required to combat child exploitation and ensure safer environments for all young individuals. The collaborative efforts of the various law enforcement bodies represent a unified front against such heinous crimes, highlighting a proactive approach to safeguarding the most innocent members of society.
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