WHITFIELD COUNTY, Ga. — A Chatsworth man was arrested following an undercover operation conducted by the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit targeting individuals seeking to exploit children.

According to the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office, detectives concluded the operation on July 16, resulting in the arrest of Shawn Ridner. Investigators allege Ridner attempted to meet with someone he believed to be a 14-year-old juvenile for indecent purposes.

Ridner has been charged with Sexual Exploitation of Children under O.C.G.A. § 16-12-100(g)(1), according to the sheriff’s office.

Sheriff Darren Pierce praised the work of the department’s newly established Special Victims Unit, saying the team has already made significant progress in identifying and apprehending individuals accused of preying on children.

“We will find you, and you will be held accountable,” Pierce said in a statement. “We will not allow innocent and vulnerable citizens of this county to be victimized.”

The sheriff’s office said the operation is one of several similar enforcement efforts planned as the Special Victims Unit continues its work to investigate crimes involving the exploitation of children.

The investigation remains ongoing.