PALATKA — Caleb Roberts was arrested on June 24, 2026, in Hillsborough County on charges including traveling to meet a minor. The arrest by the Palatka Police Department followed an investigation into the matter.

Mr. Roberts, who is 26 years old, faces additional charges of unlawful use of a two-way communication device, transmission of harmful material to a minor by electronic device, and soliciting a child for unlawful sexual conduct using a computer service or electronic device. An arrest warrant for Mr. Roberts was issued on June 9, 2026.

The Palatka Police Department stated that it conducted an independent criminal investigation. This investigation involved executing search warrants for electronic devices, conducting forensic analysis of digital evidence, verifying IP address information, and confirming the accuracy of communications.

The police department also clarified that Operation 17:2 was not acting under its direction, supervision, or in partnership with the agency. Operation 17:2 is a nonprofit organization that identifies and pursues accused child predators. In April, Operation 17:2 posted a video on YouTube confronting Caleb Roberts at a drug store and accusing him of traveling to meet a minor.

The Palatka Police Department issued a statement regarding its process. "While public concern in cases involving crimes against children is understandable, our responsibility is to ensure every case is built on independently verified evidence that can be successfully prosecuted in court," the police department said.

Caleb Roberts formerly served at Victory Church in Palatka. Victory Church announced on April 27, 2026, that Pastor Steve Roberts and Angie Roberts had stepped down from their roles. "After much prayer and careful consideration, we want to share that Pastor Steve and Angie Roberts have stepped down from their roles at Victory Church, effective immediately," Victory Church stated.