Sex predator sweep launched by local authorities

(6/20/07 - KTRK/HOUSTON) (KTRK) -- Houston police and Crime Stoppers launched a predator sweep operation, in hopes of tracking down wanted predators who have managed to slip the system.

The Houston Police chief identified 62 suspects that fit in this category who have failed to register or have given false information on where they live. The police chief calls these suspects the worse of the worse.

William James Bradford was featured by authorities as one of the 62 suspected wanted. Bradford is accused of assaulting a woman on January 9 as she walked with her two small children. He is also suspected in a burglary where the suspect reportedly stole the UT national championship letterman's jacket. He was later seen wearing that jacket while peeping into an apartment.

Police say he is just one of 62 individuals they are searching for in the 'Predator Roundup' operation. They will deploy a task force of about 67 officers to actively search for these sex offenders. Police will be talking to homeless people and going door to door and talking to associates to locate them.

The operation began on Monday and so far police say they have already cleared about 20 cases but Chief Hurtt says the work is not over.

"We are very much concerned about protecting those that are most vulnerable in our community -- and that is our young people and we need to protect them from these sexual predators," said Chief Harold Hurtt. "That's why Crime Stoppers and law enforcement is sending a strong message to those individuals that have failed to comply with the law that you must obey the law or we will track you down and arrest you."

This is a partnership with Crime Stoppers and they are relying on the public to bring them information on the wanted suspects.

If you know any of these individuals who have absconded, you can call Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. There is a $5,000 reward being offered and you can remain anonymous
(Copyright © 2007, KTRK-TV)

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