ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla — Several individuals were apprehended during two significant operations in St. Johns County. These initiatives primarily focus on offenses involving children.

Monday – the St. Johns County Sheriff’s office held a press conference to discuss an 8-day effort involving two operations.

‘Operation Safe Passage’ targeted suspects who used the internet to prey on children.

Meanwhile ‘Operation Unified Watch’ targeted registered sex offenders who were not in compliance with statutory requirements.

“Two consecutive operations prioritizing the protection of our children,” remarked St. Johns County sheriff Rob Hardwick. “Aside from law enforcement, who else will safeguard them?”

Sheriff Hardwick noted that ‘Operation Safe Passage’ resulted in 17 arrests, while ‘Operation Unified Watch’ led to 19 arrests, with an additional 36 warrants presently being processed.

Among those detained during Operation Safe Passage was Terrance Owens, a 32-year-old former civilian employee of JSO. He has since been dismissed from his position.

Sheriff T.K. Waters said he’s glad Owens is off the street.

“I am very relieved he was apprehended because now he can’t harm our kids,” Sheriff Waters stated. “We do not want this to occur, we do not accept it; I’m simply relieved he has been caught.”

We’re told suspects traveled from several areas including St. Johns County, Clay County and Duval County.