Authorities say a police officer and a firefighter were among 24 men who tried to lure teenagers for sexual activity.

Attorney General Gurbir Grewal says the men charged in the statewide sting used social media and chat apps to communicate with people they thought were teenage boys and girls. But they were actually talking with undercover officers.

Those charged in "Operation Open House" were arrested earlier this month at a Toms River home where they expected to meet the children, who they thought were home alone. 

Among them was Howell Police Sgt. Richard Conte. The 47-year-old allegedly claimed he was a 19-year-old boy and believed he was chatting with a 15-year-old girl.

News 12 New Jersey first reported about Conte’s arrest earlier this month when it was confirmed by the Howell Police Department. Conte has been suspended from the department, surrendered his weapons and cannot leave his home except for criminal proceedings or medical treatment.

All 24 defendants were charged with luring. Many also face additional charges, including attempted sexual assault on a child.

Officials say that the arrests are a good reminder for parents to monitor their children’s social media apps and games that have chat functions. They also say that parents should remind their children that there may be people out there who have bad intentions.