In Waco, Texas, a local group called Waco Ped Patrol has been making headlines for their efforts to catch and expose suspected child predators.
Their usual method involves setting up online traps, confronting the suspects in person, and then live-streaming the encounters, often on Facebook. While the group claims they are protecting children, local law enforcement has raised serious concerns.
Authorities say the group’s actions have gone too far, and now the leader of Waco Ped Patrol is facing legal trouble.
What Is Waco Ped Patrol?
Waco Ped Patrol is an organization based in Waco, Texas, that says its goal is to protect children from predators. They use fake online profiles to chat with people they suspect of inappropriate behavior. When the suspect agrees to meet, the group confronts them and records the event on video — sometimes even broadcasting it live.
On the surface, their aim seems noble. But Texas police say these kinds of confrontations are dangerous and can interfere with real investigations. The McLennan County Sheriff’s Office has been looking into the group for about six months, citing safety concerns and the group’s risky behavior.
Group Leader Akylon Benson Arrested
Recently, the group’s leader, Akylon Benson, was arrested. According to a report by KCEN, Benson was caught on video trying to detain a person during one of these confrontations. Legally, this is called unlawful restraint — meaning he tried to hold or stop someone without having the authority to do so.
Even if someone appears guilty, only law enforcement officers have the right to arrest or detain others. When civilians do this without legal authority, it can be seen as kidnapping under the law.
More Legal Trouble for Benson
At the time of his arrest, Benson was also carrying a knife, which he was not allowed to have due to a previous criminal charge and bond conditions. This added to the seriousness of his arrest.
The sheriff’s office has made it clear: taking the law into your own hands is not acceptable. While people may have good intentions, there are legal steps that must be followed to protect everyone involved, including suspects who are still legally innocent until proven guilty.
Why This Matters
This case is a reminder that law enforcement should always be handled by trained professionals. While protecting children is extremely important, doing it the wrong way can lead to more harm than good — both for the suspect and the person trying to play police.
Groups like Waco Ped Patrol may mean well, but when they start trying to arrest or detain people, they can break the law themselves, risking criminal charges and putting public safety at risk.