Michael Houston Williford,Brandon Gene Collier ARRESTED; – Ten individuals are currently facing felony charges following the identification of over a dozen victims in a significant operation aimed at combating child exploitation and sextortion in Tennessee.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) executed “Operation Autumn Shield” over a three-month period, from October to December. This operation led to the identification of 19 victims and the arrest of 10 individuals for various internet-related crimes against children.
Among the cases investigated, one suspect was found to be utilizing artificial intelligence technology to manipulate an image of his minor daughter into a nude photograph, which was subsequently shared online.
Additionally, an online extremist group known as “101” was discovered to have been established by a 14-year-old male. This group reportedly coerces minors into self-harm and the production of child sexual abuse material, according to the TBI.
The TBI noted that the majority of these victims were active on social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat.
The following individuals were arrested by the TBI:
Michael Houston Williford (DOB 11/18/1985), Sequatchie County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, involving over 100 images.
Joshua James Long (DOB 08/10/1977), Marion County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, involving over 100 images.
Rory Cullen Frerichs (DOB 02/01/2002), Polk County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, involving over 100 images.
Rodney W. Griffin (DOB 05/02/1996), Pickett County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, involving over 100 images.
Stephen Thomas Dyer (DOB 10/09/1996), Lawrence County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Brandon Gene Collier (DOB 03/31/1989), Henry County, charged with one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
A 16-year-old juvenile from Gibson County, charged with one count of Incest, one count of Rape of a Child, one count of Especially Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, one count of Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, and one count of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Anthony Loughton Spicer (DOB 03/17/1965), Robertson County, charged with three counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.
Wade Ellis Williams
