#United States #Salt Lake City #Child Protection #OUR RESCUE #Jim Cole

Our Rescue Welcomes a New Expert in Child Protection

SALT LAKE CITY, March 4, 2026 – In a significant step towards strengthening efforts against human trafficking and child exploitation, Our Rescue has appointed Jim Cole, an esteemed authority in child protection, as its Senior Advisor for Cyber Strategy and Child Protection. With a wealth of experience spanning nearly 37 years in government and law enforcement, including a pivotal role at Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Cole is poised to revolutionize how Our Rescue addresses these urgent global issues.

Cole’s illustrious career includes his crucial role in establishing HSI's first Victim Identification Program and laboratory. This initiative has been instrumental in rescuing thousands of children worldwide, leveraging advanced systems targeted at identifying child victims of exploitation and trafficking. Cole is lauded as a leading expert in various domains such as digital forensics, victim identification, and artificial intelligence, all of which are essential in contemporary efforts to tackle these heinous crimes.

The appointment comes at a critical juncture when the rise of online child exploitation cases poses severe challenges. Bill Walker, Senior Vice President of Operations at Our Rescue, emphasizes the necessity of enhanced operational support in these complex environments: “Jim understands what it takes to move investigations forward, and his experience will immediately strengthen our operational support to partners.” This appointment reflects the organization’s commitment to using technology and collaboration effectively to protect children from exploitation.

In his new role, Jim Cole will not only collaborate with domestic and international law enforcement agencies but will also spearhead training programs aimed at improving case outcomes and enhancing the capabilities of task forces combating child exploitation. His work will directly impact initiatives like ICAC Connect and the Interstate Justice Coalition, ensuring that such programs are responsive to the constantly evolving nature of these crimes.

Derek Benner, CEO of Our Rescue, praised Cole's extensive background and dedication to aiding law enforcement: “Jim has dedicated his career to helping law enforcement find victims faster and more effectively. He is one of the world’s foremost experts in victim identification, and he understands how to translate technology and collaboration into real-world results.” This leadership is expected to bolster Our Rescue’s credibility and impact across various partners working to combat human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.

As a pioneer in the field of child safety, Cole has shaped many of the investigative tools that agencies now rely on. John Trenary, VP of Cyber at Our Rescue, echoes the importance of this appointment: “Jim’s experience and expertise will enhance how we support technology-driven investigations.”

Our Rescue’s mission to end human trafficking and child exploitation hinges on robust collaborations and acquiring knowledge from experts like Jim Cole. His addition to the team reflects a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that stakeholders are equipped with the best resources to effectively help vulnerable children facing exploitation.

About Our Rescue
Our Rescue is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to combating human trafficking and child exploitation while providing support to survivors on their journey to healing. For additional information regarding Our Rescue’s initiatives and work, please visit www.ourrescue.org.