Sheriff's Office reports 86 arrests in months-long 'Operation Always Watching' predator sting

Thursday, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office released the results of an undercover investigation: 86 arrests on charges related to sexual offenders/predators restrictions or new law violations.

The Sheriff's Office Sex Offender Unit, in conjunction with the United States Marshal Services, conducted Operation Always Watching from April 1-July 31, 2023. While the focus was on sexual offender compliance, it also included contacting registered sexual offenders who were listed as transients, sex offenders who had previously absconded, and sexual offenders and predators living in Osceola County, the agency said.

Aside from those arrested, another seven are wanted on charges:

Dale Fox, 45
Marvin Casteneda, 32
Daniel Kinnick, 40
Ronald Weikert, 74
Carlos Melendez-Medina, 36
William Messeck, 59
John Utesch, 58

Go here to see the names of those arrested.

The Sheriff's Office offers a search resource to monitor and inquire about the whereabouts, conduct, and compliance status of the registered offenders in the County, including searching by address to see if registered offenders have a listed address nearby. Search for offenders.