Justice Served: Colombian Survivors Testify as Child Sex Tourist Receives Life Sentence

In a landmark moment for international justice, the International Protection Alliance (IPA) facilitated a historic opportunity for survivors to face their abuser in court. On June 25-28, 2024, IPA flew two Colombian survivors and one of their mothers from Colombia to Miami so they could provide victim impact statements at the sentencing of Stefan Andres Correa, a 42-year-old Miami man who traveled repeatedly to Colombia to sexually abuse children.

A Life Sentence for Decades of Abuse

Stefan Correa was sentenced to life in federal prison for his crimes against Colombian children. The scope of his abuse was staggering: from December 2022 to April 2024, Correa traveled from Miami to Colombia over 40 times specifically to abuse children. During these trips, he secretly filmed the abuse, creating over 100 videos documenting his crimes against more than 50 children.

The Department of Justice press release details how Correa used technology to facilitate his crimes, including maintaining contact with Colombian sex traffickers and paying approximately $75 USD for access to children as young as 10-12 years old.

Survivors Use Their Voice in Court

Both survivors courageously appeared in court, with one providing a powerful victim impact statement. IPA’s founder Jacob Ostler also delivered a public statement during the proceedings, highlighting the organization’s commitment to supporting survivors and fighting international child exploitation.

The courtroom moment represented more than just legal proceedings—it was an opportunity for healing and justice that would have been impossible without international cooperation and dedicated support.

Survivor Testimonies: Courage and Hope

Survivor #1’s Reflection:

“That trip was very significant for me because it touched my soul, brought me hope and clarity and also gave me back the desire to dream big and fight for a dignified life. And now that I’m done I feel that nothing was a coincidence: every person and every moment arrived just when they had to arrive. And about the sentence; for me it was healing and transforming and although only she and I attended I had the opportunity to raise my voice not only for me, but for the others; expressing myself in front of so many people made me feel nervous at first, but in the end I felt a courage that I will never forget.”

Survivor #2’s Statement:

“I am very grateful because I was given the opportunity to stand up and seek justice for many girls who have gone through this situation, being invisible to many people and receiving no support, facing all of this because of need. This trip gave me a new life experience and made me reflect on the fact that even if someone claims to be good, they can sometimes have bad intentions or lead a chaotic life.

I think I was able to represent many girls who couldn’t, and thanks to justice, I will be able to offer a better world to my daughter and to future generations. I already imagined that in a country with so much justice, a sick pedophile would pay a fair sentence. Thank you so much to all the people who gave me these blessings; it was a wonderful and unique experience. God bless you, and I hope you continue doing this beautiful work. I wish you many blessings and prosperity in your lives.”

Supporting Survivors Beyond the Courtroom

Following the emotionally demanding court proceedings, IPA ensured the survivors could experience some peace and normalcy. The team took the young women to the ocean, providing them with a moment of relaxation and healing after their brave testimony.

One of the survivors, now 18 years old, has a one-month-old daughter. Understanding the practical needs of young mothers, IPA purchased essential supplies for both her and her baby before their return journey to Colombia. All participants returned home safely, carrying with them not just the satisfaction of justice served, but also hope for the future.

International Cooperation in Action

The successful prosecution and sentencing of Correa demonstrates the power of international cooperation in combating child sex tourism. Present at the courthouse following the sentencing were representatives from Colombian law enforcement and government, HSI Miami, and IPA’s Jacob Ostler—a testament to the collaborative effort required to bring predators to justice across international borders.

This case was prosecuted under the PROTECT Act and Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, which allow the United States to prosecute its citizens for crimes committed abroad, ensuring that international borders cannot shield predators from justice.

A Message to Our Supporters

To the donors who made this historic moment possible, Survivor #1 shared: “To the donors who made this possible I would say thank you very much from the bottom of my heart because their support made possible something much bigger than a trip, they offered me an opportunity to feel heard and accompanied, thank you very much for your generosity.”

Special Recognition

A huge thank you to Brooklyn Swenson for hosting a fundraiser and donating $5,000 for this project. Her generous contribution made it possible for these survivors to travel to Miami and have their voices heard in court. Learn more about Brooklyn’s work at www.brooklynswenson.com.

The Ongoing Fight

This case represents both a victory and a reminder of the work that remains. Stefan Correa’s life sentence sends a clear message that child sex tourism will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. However, it also highlights the ongoing need for organizations like IPA to support survivors, facilitate international cooperation, and ensure that justice is not just served, but accessible to those who need it most.

The courage demonstrated by these two young women—traveling thousands of miles to face their abuser in court—exemplifies the resilience of survivors and the power of providing them with the support they need to seek justice.

At the International Protection Alliance, we remain committed to supporting survivors, working with international law enforcement, and ensuring that predators face consequences for their crimes, no matter where they occur. This case proves that with dedication, international cooperation, and community support, justice is possible.

The International Protection Alliance empowers enforcement agencies with advanced capabilities to track and apprehend online predators, protecting children and communities globally. To support our mission and help more survivors access justice, visit our website to make a donation today.