Sponsor Anti-Trafficking Law Enforcement Training
Sponsor Anti-Trafficking Law Enforcement Training
Digital Defenders United was founded by Kim Kelley, a survivor of one of the most abusive cults in modern history — and a relentless advocate for children.
Today, Digital Defenders United brings together cybersecurity experts, survivor leaders, law enforcement, policymakers, and industry innovators to tackle online child exploitation at its root.
Our mission:
To combine survivor wisdom, cutting-edge technology, and strategic advocacy to end child exploitation — online and offline.
Our vision:
A world where children are safe, systems are accountable, and survivors are empowered

Kim Kelley is a survivor of 20 years of cult abuse and child trafficking. She now leads Digital Defenders United, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting children and combating exploitation through survivor-led advocacy, tech collaboration, law enforcement training, and policy engagement. Kim works closely with law enforcement agencies, tech companies, and advocacy organizations to drive real-world solutions and provide trauma-informed training nationwide.

Chad Timney is the founder and driving force behind The Ranch TX, one of the most respected tactical training facilities in the country. With a lifelong commitment to protecting communities and empowering those on the front lines, Chad brings unmatched experience in high-risk training environments to the Digital Defenders United mission.
Under Chad’s leadership, The Ranch TX has trained elite teams from law enforcement, military, and private security—including units combatting child exploitation and trafficking. Known for realism, integrity, and operational excellence, The Ranch has become a vital partner in preparing professionals for real-world threats.

The Ranch Texas is a premier tactical training facility serving local, state, and federal law enforcement, military personnel, first responders, and private security teams. Designed by experts with decades of real-world operational experience, The Ranch provides immersive, scenario-based training environments that prepare protectors to respond to the evolving threats children face today.
In partnership with Digital Defenders United, The Ranch TX:
• Supports the development of trauma-informed training programs
• Hosts law enforcement and interdiction teams for advanced readiness courses
• Assists in training on survivor-centered operations and exploitation prevention
• Helps shape our strategic approach to frontline response and policy alignment
This collaboration bridges lived experience with operational expertise to better equip the professionals who stand on the front lines of child protection.

Mark Stross is a pioneering technologist and the Chief Technology Officer at ANC, where he has led groundbreaking advancements in digital technology for over two decades. His expertise in developing sophisticated digital solutions has revolutionized the digital signage and video display sectors. With a passion for innovation, Mark has been instrumental in bridging the gap between technology and human interaction. Beyond his professional achievements, Mark is a sought-after keynote speaker and author, advocating for digital sovereignty and a Digital Bill of Rights. As a member of the Digital Defenders United Board of Advisors, Mark brings his extensive experience and visionary approach to guide the mission of protecting children's innocence online.

Ron Orr is a decorated U.S. Army Warrant Officer with nearly three decades of leadership in military aviation, force protection, tactical training, crisis management, and large-scale operational planning.
Throughout his career, Ron has led complex training initiatives, developed operational programs, and built strategic partnerships across military, law enforcement, and public safety organizations. As an IALEFI Master Firearms Instructor, NRA Chief Range Safety Officer, FAA-certified commercial pilot and instructor, and respected leader in tactical training, he brings extensive expertise in preparing professionals for high-risk environments.
As Strategic Partnerships & Public Safety Advisor to Digital Defenders United, Ron helps strengthen relationships with law enforcement agencies, training organizations, and public safety leaders nationwide. His guidance supports DDU’s mission to improve collaboration, expand professional education, and equip those on the front lines of protecting children from exploitation and trafficking.

Mike Richards is a retired U.S. Coast Guard veteran who spent twenty years serving in elite counter-terrorism and maritime security operations, including leadership roles within the Maritime Security Response Team (MSRT-East).
As a Direct Action Section Operator, Sniper/Reconnaissance Team Leader, and tactical instructor, Mike supported national security missions, counter-drug operations, surveillance, and human trafficking interdiction efforts both within the United States and internationally.
As Counter-Trafficking & Tactical Operations Advisor to Digital Defenders United, Mike helps advance DDU’s mission by providing expertise in operational planning, law enforcement readiness, interdiction strategies, and professional training designed to strengthen the response to child exploitation and trafficking.

Kirk Scheel is a veteran military officer, retired firefighter, licensed paramedic, and nationally respected tactical medical instructor with decades of experience serving military, law enforcement, and emergency response professionals.
After serving as a Captain in the Texas and Mississippi Army National Guard, Kirk spent more than two decades with the Kerrville Fire Department while also serving as Senior Tactical Medic for the Kerrville Police Department’s Special Operations Unit. His extensive experience includes tactical medicine, rescue operations, protective driving, disaster response, and instructor development both domestically and internationally.
As Emergency Response & Tactical Medicine Advisor to Digital Defenders United, Kirk provides strategic guidance on emergency preparedness, trauma-informed response, multidisciplinary training, and the coordination required to safely recover and support child victims during exploitation and trafficking investigations.

Monty “Mojo” Johnson is a career firefighter, lieutenant/paramedic, tactical medic, and nationally recognized instructor with nearly three decades of experience in emergency response, rescue operations, and law enforcement support.
Throughout his career, Monty has served on specialized rescue teams, active threat response units, regional SWAT teams, and instructor cadres responsible for training first responders in tactical medicine, active attack response, rescue operations, and disaster preparedness. He also serves as an Adjunct Instructor with the nationally recognized ALERRT Center at Texas State University.
As First Responder Readiness & Rescue Operations Advisor to Digital Defenders United, Monty helps strengthen multidisciplinary response capabilities by advising on emergency medical response, active threat preparedness, coordinated rescue operations, and training programs that improve outcomes for child victims and the professionals who serve them.

Chad Jackson is a highly respected cyber-security expert with over 20 years of experience in information security and networking. His career began with a distinguished 12.5-year tenure in counterintelligence in the U.S. Air Force, followed by 2.5 years in the private sector. Chad's strategic vision and expertise have made him an indispensable leader in roles including CEO and COO of various organizations. Currently working as a network engineer for one of the largest fiber optic companies, Chad is well-versed in multiple programming languages and holds several certifications.

Ludmila Golovine is an internationally recognized language access expert and the founder of MasterWord, a top-ranked global language solutions company. As a trauma-informed interpreter, educator, and advocate, Ludmila brings decades of experience bridging communication across cultures—especially in crisis and survivor support contexts. Her leadership and innovation have helped shape ethical standards and trauma-informed best practices in translation for human trafficking interdictions, law enforcement operations, and survivor care programs.
Digital Defenders United Inc. is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit
Tax ID: 99-3802367
100% of donations go directly to the mission.
None of our team members receive any salary or compensation for their contributions to this cause.
Founded July 2024. Financial documents will be made available upon filing our first 990.
As of November 1, 2025 we have received less than $300 in donations from external sources. We are entirely self-funded, focused on action and results rather than fundraising.
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