MISS AMERICA WORKS TO KEEP KIDS SAFE ON THE INTERNET…AND WE HELPED!

April 26, Bedford, Va.    Bedford County Sheriff’s Office, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), Operation Blue Ridge Thunder, wishes to congratulate Miss America 2007, Lauren Nelson, on her efforts to protect children on the Internet, and specifically her participation in America’s Most Wanted Internet “sting” operation in New York last week. The operation netted four potential child sexual predators. This is one young lady who puts her actions where her mouth is…she says it, she does it!

We are also very proud that Bedford’s own ICAC Task Force had first opportunity to educate Miss Nelson in this very arena three weeks ago and that she is a member of our Operation Blue Ridge Thunder unit, and an Honorary Deputy Sheriff with the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office.     

America's Most Wanted, the successful long-running TV show on FOX that profiles fugitives wanted for violent crimes, often including those currently on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List, will air a very special episode on Saturday, April 28 featuring Miss America 2007 Lauren Nelson as a crime stopper for internet safety along with child advocate and star of show, John Walsh. "Internet Safety - Protecting Kids Online," is Lauren's personal platform and an issue she became passionate about after she and two friends were approached by an online predator at age 13.

Miss America 2007 Lauren Nelson worked undercover with the Suffolk County Police Department, NY, and set the stage posing as a child on the internet to help capture four potential child predators in the upcoming episode this Saturday, April 28th. Lauren was thrilled to be a part of this incredible operation to help protect children on the internet.

Way to go Miss America!!!! You make us proud!

Click here for the Youtube clip of Lauren's appearance on America's Most Wanted!

Michael J. Brown
Sheriff
Bedford County, Virginia