241 sexual predators arrested in 'Operation Broken Heart'

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- More than 240 alleged sexual predators were arrested on suspicion of luring children over the internet in May during an investigation known as "Operation Broken Heart," authorities announced Thursday.

A teaching assistant for special needs kids, a retired sheriff's deputy and an Army soldier were among those arrested in the sting. Most had a history of sexual abuse towards children.

"You lock your doors and windows every night to be able to keep predators out of your home. If your child is in the next room on the internet, you may have a predator sitting virtually in the next room," Long Beach Police Chief Jim McDonnell said.

Law enforcement advises parents to know who their children are talking to at all times and to limit time online, especially during the summer.

"As technology improves... then the ability to connect to children is everywhere at all times," said Kirk Albanese, LAPD's chief of detectives.