GARDENDALE, Ala. – Josh Moody is the chief executive officer of Covenant Rescue Group. It is a nonprofit based out of Gardendale that fights against human trafficking, child exploitation and other related crimes. Moody and others involved receive law enforcement training to better serve in protecting the community.
It released the following statement online: “We are grateful for the dedicated law enforcement agencies who work to protect the most vulnerable. CRG remains committed to standing beside agencies across the country with training, technology, and operational support to combat human trafficking and child exploitation.”
When asked about the most common social media platforms predators use to gain access to children and what parents should be aware of, Moody stated, “We’ve got a specific curriculum built for students, parents, teachers and administrators. Those curriculums warn parents what to look for within kids’ phones and how there are ways to hide apps. We will talk about, a lot of the time, how these individuals approach you online. Whether it’s through Instagram, TikTok messages or whatever the case may be.”
He advised that a large part of CRG’s curriculum is based on what to expect with advances through online messaging.
“In this day and age the best thing to do, which isn’t very feasible anymore – but kids don’t need to have a phone. Our CEO, Jared Hudson, stated, ‘If a parent gives a child access to a phone, they’re giving that child access to the world and they’re giving the world access to them.’”
He went on to explain that he could give five instances where friends of his have had adults online attempt to message their children. Whether that was by predators or those attempting “sextortion.”
Sextortion targets children and teens and takes place when they are threatened and even coerced into sending explicit images online. Use the following link of information given by the Federal Bureau of Investigation to learn more.
www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/sextortion
Moody advised that in order to protect your children you have to monitor the things that they are doing online. Read text messages, stay up to date on ways children or teens can hide messages, monitor game chats such as Discord or built-in game chats. If your child has an online presence- do your due diligence.
CRG recommends downloading an app called “Bark.” This app allows you to monitor your child’s activity on their phone in real time. This app gives parents access to over 30-plus apps, social media, texts and emails. This not only protectors your children from predators, but also provides them safety against other online dangers such as bullying and adult content.
Visit https://bark.us to see the functionality of the app and how to use it.
Moody advised that some parents may say this is an invasion of their children’s privacy. He advised that it is not. “That’s the best way you’re going to protect your child and know what they’re doing online at all times.”
Warning signs of children being exploited:
- Distancing or withdrawal
- Cutting ties with friends or family
- Staying in their room more with their device
- Rapid change in demeanor such as guilt or anxiety
- Overnight difference in personality
“Having good communication and relationship with your child is going to protect them. If they feel like they can come talk to you, that’s going to help a lot,” he said.
Recently, Cullman County sheriff candidates publicly announced that they would not attend a political forum scheduled for March 21, 2026, at the Brandin’ Iron in West Point when it was brought to their attention that the organizer of the forum was a registered sex offender.
Chad Whaley stated online, “Protecting our children is not political — it is a moral responsibility.”
Tim Creel responded, “I stand firmly and unequivocally against crimes targeting children. Protecting children is not a political talking point for me; it is a moral line that will never be crossed.“
When Moody was asked about the importance of crimes against children not being viewed as a political agenda he said, “I would agree 100%. In 2004, when Governor (Kay) Ivey passed the Sound of Freedom Act for the state of Alabama. That act gave Alabama some of the strictest human trafficking laws in the country. When they voted on that bill it passed 102-0. That shows you that it’s not a Democrat, Republican, conservative or liberal issue. It’s hard to argue the safety of our kids. Everyone agrees our kids should be protected from this.”
He added, “Throughout scripture God tells us over and over again to protect those that are vulnerable, protect those who can’t protect themselves. Protect them and be their defender. Morally and legally we have an obligation to protect our kids, 100%.”
If you are interested in upcoming curriculums or have additional questions, reach out to admin@covenantrescue.org
