Cleared Hot Podcast Episode 383: Garrett Maxey

Host: Andy Stumpf
Guest: Garrett Maxey, Special Victims Unit Detective
Release Date: April 21, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 383 of "Cleared Hot," host Andy Stumpf welcomes Garrett Maxey, a seasoned Special Victims Unit detective with over 12 years of experience in law enforcement, specializing in Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) in Idaho. This episode delves into the harrowing realities of combating the darkest facets of online crimes, the emotional and psychological burdens placed on law enforcement officers, and the critical conversations parents must have to safeguard their children.

Garrett Maxey’s Journey into Law Enforcement

[13:06] Garrett Maxey:
"Growing up in Southern California, my dad was a deputy with LA County Sheriffs. And, I mean, that's just what I wanted to do."

Garrett shares his early inspiration drawn from his father's career in law enforcement. Despite his initial aspirations to work on proactive, high-adrenaline cases involving drugs and guns, Garrett's path took a pivotal turn towards tackling Internet Crimes Against Children, driven by a deep-seated desire to protect the most vulnerable.

Challenges Within Law Enforcement

Andy Stumpf:
"The culture around mental health...it has to be changing." [131:30]

Garrett discusses the prevalent mental health challenges faced by officers, emphasizing the stigma that often prevents them from seeking necessary support. He highlights the importance of transforming the internal culture to better address and support the emotional well-being of law enforcement personnel.

Special Victims Unit and ICAC: Roles and Responsibilities

[40:05] Garrett Maxey:
"I'd say a lot of it was you're... you don't want to be that guy who's stuck on a, on a shift, killer of a call."

Transitioning from general patrol duties to the Special Victims Unit, Garrett elaborates on the intensive nature of ICAC work. This role involves investigating severe crimes such as child pornography and online enticement, requiring officers to confront unimaginable atrocities regularly.

Case Studies and Insights

[58:13] Garrett Maxey:
"I'm not just. Yeah, man, it was all bad. It was all bad." [72:10]

Garrett recounts specific cases that underscore the disturbing extent of online child exploitation. One notable case involved an uncle grooming his niece using burner phones and social media platforms, leading to a conviction that showcased the complexities of prosecuting such crimes.

Impact on Officers: Emotional Toll

[77:07] Garrett Maxey:
"I just couldn't function, man. I couldn't function." [90:35]

The emotional burdens of handling severe cases take a significant toll on officers. Garrett shares his personal struggle with processing the horrific material he encounters, ultimately leading him to step away from ICAC duties to preserve his mental health and family well-being.

Technological Factors: Dark Web and Encryption

[85:27] Garrett Maxey:
"And I have a hard time believing that those two numbers just aren't related..." [111:24]

The evolution of technology, particularly the Dark Web and advanced encryption methods, poses substantial challenges in tracking and apprehending predators. Garrett emphasizes that while technology offers anonymity to offenders, dedicated law enforcement efforts gradually uncover their activities through meticulous investigation and technological advancements.

Advice for Parents: Protecting Your Children

[116:22] Garrett Maxey:
"Conversations with your kids...keep drilling that into their head." [120:22]

Garrett stresses the importance of open communication between parents and children regarding online safety. He advises parents to:

• Engage in Conversations: Regularly discuss the dangers of online interactions and the significance of maintaining privacy.

• Monitor Technology Use: Be aware of their children's online activities, including the use of burner phones or secretive apps.

• Educate on Consent and Boundaries: Ensure children understand the importance of personal boundaries and recognize inappropriate behavior.

[122:26] Garrett Maxey:
"We have to be aware that it's not okay, and be aware that you can come and talk to me about anything." [122:26]

Garrett encourages parents to foster an environment where children feel comfortable reporting any suspicious or uncomfortable interactions without fear of judgment or repercussions.

Conclusion: The Uphill Battle and Future Outlook

[135:20] Garrett Maxey:
"It's an uphill battle for sure." [141:35]

As the episode concludes, Garrett reflects on the persistent and evolving nature of online child exploitation. He underscores the necessity for continuous adaptation in law enforcement strategies and the critical role of community awareness and parental vigilance in combating these heinous crimes.

[122:22] Andy Stumpf:
"But stranger danger. I mean, most people believe that." [124:43]

Andy reinforces the message that while the internet has introduced new threats, the fundamental need for vigilance and open communication within families remains paramount.

Key Takeaways

• Emotional Resilience: Law enforcement officers dealing with severe online crimes require robust mental health support systems.

• Technological Challenges: Advanced technologies like the Dark Web complicate investigations but do not make apprehending offenders impossible.

• Parental Responsibility: Proactive and open dialogues about online safety can significantly reduce the risk of children becoming victims.

• Community Collaboration: Effective law enforcement efforts depend on community support, timely reporting, and collaborative strategies to tackle evolving threats.

Notable Quotes:

• Garrett Maxey [13:06]:
  "Growing up in Southern California, my dad was a deputy with LA County Sheriffs. And, I mean, that's just what I wanted to do."

• Andy Stumpf [131:30]:
  "The culture around mental health...it has to be changing."

• Garrett Maxey [40:05]:
  "I'd say a lot of it was you're... you don't want to be that guy who's stuck on a, on a shift, killer of a call."

• Garrett Maxey [77:07]:
  "I just couldn't function, man. I couldn't function."

• Garrett Maxey [120:22]:
  "Conversations with your kids...keep drilling that into their head."

This episode of "Cleared Hot" offers a profound glimpse into the harrowing work of detectives like Garrett Maxey who confront the darkest aspects of online child exploitation. It underscores the indispensable role of mental health support for officers and the critical responsibility parents hold in safeguarding their children in an increasingly digital world.