Why Did Federal Prosecutors File Zero Charges After Operation Tidal Wave?

True Crime Today | Daily True Crime News & Interviews · May 24, 2026 · 45m

Operation Tidal Wave was a coordinated federal action in which CBP and HSI agents boarded eight cruise ships docked in San Diego and detained 27 crew members allegedly connected to CSAM — child sexual abuse material — based on intelligence provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Agents had identified targets before the vessels arrived. Ten reportedly served aboard the Disney Magic. Four were employed by Holland America. All 27 were deported within approximately two weeks. KPBS confirmed that as of their reporting, federal prosecutors in both the Southern District…