7 arrested in online child predator sting

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Authorities in Volusia County said seven men, accused of traveling to meet children for sex, have been arrested.

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office nabbed the suspects after conducting its latest undercover sting targeting Internet predators, known as “Operation Unlawful Attraction.”

"The arrests included one man who chatted with undercover VCSO detectives in another predator operation two years ago, but never traveled to meet his target," explained Sheriff's Office spokesman Andrew Gant.

Among those arrested were a former Florida Elks Youth Camp counselor,  an in-home caregiver, and a mechanic.  Deputies said the men traveled from within Volusia County and also from Alachua, Lake and Seminole counties.

All seven are charged with using a computer to seduce/solicit/lure a child, traveling to seduce/solicit/lure a child, attempted lewd and lascivious battery, and use of 2-way communication device to commit a felony.