Twelve people were arrested following a months-long child exploitation investigation led by the Modesto Police Department’s Special Crimes Unit, authorities announced Wednesday.

Police said investigators conducted extensive investigations into reports received through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children CyberTipline involving suspected child exploitation.

According to the department, the investigation resulted in 12 residential search warrants being served, 12 arrests, five victims being identified, and three firearms being recovered, including one confirmed stolen firearm. One case was also submitted to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

Police said the investigation included allegations of possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, as well as additional allegations involving child molestation, unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, sexual battery, invasion of privacy, receiving stolen property, carrying a concealed firearm, and other related offenses.

Those arrested were identified as Antonio Mayorga, 27; David Colombo, 50; Marcial Chavous, 34; Joseph Moreno, 20; James Pottruff, 18; Rian Howitz, 22; Marcos Deras, 20; Francisco Deras, 44; Kevin Hornback, 41; Victor Jimenez, 34; Nicholas Sukhu, 31; and Aerik Hayes, 25.

The Modesto Police Department said the investigation was conducted with assistance from the Oakdale Police Department and the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force.

All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law, police said.