NEW ORLEANS – Special agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are seeking the public’s help to identify possible victims in an ongoing child sexual exploitation investigation involving a Harvey, Louisiana, man who worked as a daycare specialist.
On Monday, Max Cory Johnson Jr., was arrested by HSI New Orleans and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office on child exploitation charges, after an investigation revealed he was accessing and downloading child sexual abuse material. Johnson had been employed as a daycare specialist at YouFit Gyms in Harvey since December 2022.
Due to his online activity and employment, the HSI New Orleans office and JPSO are seeking information that may help identify any potential victims that have been engaged or exploited by Johnson.
“Protecting the children in our communities, both online and in person, remains a top priority for Homeland Security Investigations,” said HSI New Orleans acting Special Agent in Charge Edward V. Owens. “HSI, along with our dedicated law enforcement partners, remains committed to identifying individuals who prey on our most vulnerable population, especially those who hold positions of public trust.”
HSI encourages the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free tip line at 866-347-2423 or by completing its online tip form. Both are staffed around the clock. From outside the United States and Canada, dial 802-872-6199. Hearing impaired users may call TTY 802-872-6196.
HSI takes a victim-centered approach to child exploitation investigations by working to identify, rescue and stabilize victims. HSI works in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, ICAC partners, and other federal, state and local agencies to help solve cases and rescue sexually exploited children. You can report suspected child sexual exploitation or missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 800-THE-LOST.