 In today’s digital environment, sexual predators use social media, messaging apps, and gaming platforms to gain access to children—and the use of these tools can be like opening a door right into your child’s bedroom. That’s the message of the Michigan State Police’s new public awareness campaign aimed at teaching parents and children how to safely navigate the digital world.
“At any given time, there are tens of thousands of predators online looking to exploit children,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP. “Any child who is online can be a target—even yours—so it’s important to have conversations with your children about what to do if they encounter a stranger online.”
The 'Opening the Door' campaign, led by the Michigan Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, includes a video public service announcement highlighting predatory behaviors such as grooming, sextortion, and coercion, while encouraging adults to proactively discuss online dangers with their children. Using federal funds, the video will be shared through a paid social media campaign that starts today and runs through December.
Here is the link to the video:
As children spend more and more time online, the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office continues to see a rise in incidents of child online exploitation, whether it is related to a child being exposed to inappropriate content online, peer-to-peer sexual exchanges (sexting) or online exploitation from someone the child does not know in real life. All of these can have long-term, negative impacts on a child.
The Sheriff's Office has one Detective assigned to the MSP Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and while she and other investigators work diligently to investigate these incidents, they need parents help. The best defense against child online exploitation is for parents to talk with their children about the online dangers and risks associated with talking to people they don't know and sharing sexual content. Parents need to engage with their children about their online activities, keeping the doors of communication open for their child if they do ever find themselves in a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
The Sheriff’s Office also works closely with the Child Anti-Exploitation Partnership Program (CAPP) through Crisis Aid International. This program establishes mentoring and education for youths involved in risky online behaviors.
Parents also need to understand the importance of privacy settings and parental controls. Talk to your children about why these are important, so they understand that it is about keeping them safe and not a way to "spy" on them. We do not give a 16-year-old keys to a car and just let them hit the open road, we first teach them how to drive and how to stay safe in the car. The Internet has it own dangers and risks, so shouldn't we also then be teaching our youth how to navigate the Internet safely and placing safeguards to protect them.
“Education is your best defense against online predators,” said Capt. Lizabeth Rich, commander of the MSP Intelligence Operations Division. “We encourage parents to work with their children to create a plan for internet use that includes parental controls. They should get comfortable talking about online dangers and familiarize themselves with how to report any odd activity they encounter.”
For more resources check out:
Key Statistics
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1 in 7 children aged 10–17 have received an unwanted sexual solicitation online (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children).
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The FBI reports 50,000 predators are online each day, many posing as peers in games or social apps.
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71% of teens say they hide online activity from parents in some way (Pew Research).
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Reports of child sextortion to the CyberTipline increased more than 80% from 2022 to 2023 nationwide.
Top Tips for Parents and Guardians
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Talk Early and Often – Maintain open conversations about safe internet use, stranger danger, and the importance of reporting uncomfortable interactions.
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Use Parental Controls – Set privacy settings on devices and apps, enable content filters, and regularly review friend lists and direct messages.
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Teach Red Flags – Warn children about secrecy, flattery, requests for photos, or anyone asking to meet offline.
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Stay Involved – Know which apps and games your child uses, and periodically check devices together.
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Report Suspicious Activity – Save evidence and report to the CyberTipline at www.cybertipline.org or call 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
Ottawa County is home to a dedicated Search and Rescue (SAR) Team of 21 highly trained volunteers who give their time and skills to assist local law enforcement and emergency management.
“They are a group of volunteers, and many of them have full-time jobs,” said Derek Schroeder, Local Emergency Planning Coordinator. “They work closely with the county and really do a great job.”
The team partners with similar groups from Kent, Muskegon, and Allegan counties, ensuring a strong regional response network. Schroeder noted that training to join the team is free, making this vital service accessible to anyone interested in helping their community.
The SAR team specializes in locating missing persons, supporting disaster response operations, and providing ground search capabilities during emergencies. Members are trained in search techniques, navigation, communications, and survival skills, often working side by side with first responders in challenging conditions.
Beyond search operations, the team also plays an important role in public safety education, community preparedness, and supporting large-scale events where extra eyes and ears are needed.
With only 21 members, every volunteer makes a difference — proving that a small, dedicated group can have a big impact on community safety.
“The group is an important part of Ottawa County,” Schroeder added. “They like to be active and feel part of the team. We are always looking for more members.”
Interested in joining or learning more? Contact Derek Schroeder at:
October 9 - 1 PM- 3 PM
Ottawa County Administrative Building - Conference Room
12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive
October 22 - 2 PM - 4 PM
Waterford Place
1725 Port Sheldon Street
Jenison
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