Garrard County is a county of about 17,000 residents located in east-central Kentucky. Its county seat is Lancaster. At least one web-based reverse sting has been conducted in the county. In December 2017, local police conducted an undercover operation focused on apprehending men using the internet to prey on children for sexual purposes. Using popular social media websites, an officer posed as a 15-year-old female who was interested in meeting an older man for sex. In each case, after exchanging private online messages and text messages, a meeting was scheduled. When the men appeared and affirmed their intent to purchase sex, they were apprehended by members of the Garrard County and Lancaster Police Departments. One of the apprehended men indicated he worked around youth, and another had a Bible and Santa outfit in his car, suggesting working or volunteering in proximity to children. Police arrested four men, whose identities were released in news reports. All were charged with unlawful transaction with a minor, sex act under 16 years of age, and prohibited use of an electronic communication system to procure minor/peace officer.