Authorities Investigate Child Sex Ring In Western & Southern Maine

Members of the State Police, the Department of Homeland Security, and multiple law enforcement agencies from across Maine came together for a massive investigation this week. Authorities were focused specifically on gathering evidence connected to a child exploitation operation spread out between Southern and Western Maine.

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The investigation took place over 4 days, encompassing 16 search warrants, and has resulted in 2 arrests so far, but Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson, Shannon Moss, says it's not over yet.

"In all 16 search warrants were executed confirming the possession, dissemination and production of child sexual abuse material as well as disseminating sexually explicit material to minors and online coercion of children to produce sexual abuse material...Two people were arrested on related charges during the operation. 48-year-old Shawn Ramsay of Arundel was arrested for possession of firearms in violation of a protection from abuse order. 37-year-old Benjamin Fecteau of Eliot was arrested on two outstanding arrest warrants for failing to appear on charges of Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registry, Violation of Conditions of Release, Theft, and Refusing to Submit to Arrest."

Moss says some of the spots they were looking into include  Lyman, Limington, Hollis, Biddeford, Kittery, Eliot, Arundel, Steep Falls, North Waterboro, Sanford, Fryeburg, Bryant Pond, Hiram, West Paris, Hartford, Norway, and Madison.

The investigation remains open and is active for the moment. Once authorities have finished collecting evidence, all of it will be handed over to the local DA's office and The US Attorney to be presented to a grand jury.