Undercover Agent Battles Dark Web Child Abuse

Investigator Greg Squire works undercover, dedicating up to 18 hours daily to befriend child sex abusers online, aiming to rescue victims and bring perpetrators to justice. This intense work, described by Squire as 'drinking poison,' carries a significant psychological burden. A profound impact was felt in 2014 during the 'Lucy' case, where agents meticulously identified and rescued a child subjected to abuse since she was seven. The investigation, involving analysis of brickwork to pinpoint her location in Texas, led to her mother's boyfriend, a convicted sex offender, receiving a 70-year sentence.

Squire's efforts are documented in the BBC investigation 'The Darkest Web,' following him and global agents for seven years. The dark web's child abuse forums have grown significantly, with over 1 million active users, functioning like organized crime. As fewer than 50 agents worldwide are dedicated to this, they engage in constant triage. Recent trends show victims are younger, including infants, and perpetrators are often young and tech-savvy. Years of exposure led Squire to personal struggles, including marital issues and increased drinking, from which he recovered with his partner's support and therapy. He now advocates for mental health support for those in similar roles.