Blake Carpenter, 29, of Johnston, and Saw Ye, 50, of Smithfield, were arrested as part of a sting aimed at people seeking to solicit minors for sexual activity, according to state police. Both were arraigned Monday and are scheduled to return to court for a conference on Feb. 4.

The operation was carried out last Saturday by the two units, which work together to investigate online exploitation and crimes against young people. State police did not release additional details about how the sting was conducted or what evidence led to the arrests.

The charges underscore the continuing role of the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, a multi-agency effort that partners with local, state and federal law enforcement to identify and prosecute people who use the internet to target minors. The Special Victims Unit handles cases involving sexual assault, child abuse and other crimes against vulnerable populations.

Indecent solicitation of a child is a felony under Rhode Island law. A conviction can carry significant prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

State police said the investigation remains active and declined to comment further. Anyone with information about suspected online exploitation of children is urged to contact the Rhode Island State Police or the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.