San Juan County, NM – The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office has announced a significant breakthrough in a disturbing child exploitation case, resulting in the arrest of Jacob Marriott, a resident of Farmington, New Mexico. The arrest marks the culmination of a nearly year-long investigation into the possession and manufacturing of child sexual abuse material.
The investigation was launched in March 2024, after detectives received a cyber tip from the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office alerting authorities to the potential possession of child pornography within the county. The cyber tip provided crucial leads, prompting an extensive inquiry by the Sheriff’s Office into digital activities linked to Marriott.
After months of investigative work, detectives executed a search warrant at Marriott’s residence. During the search, multiple electronic devices were seized and forensically examined. Investigators discovered thousands of photos and videos depicting child sexual abuse material, including disturbing images of at least one underaged girl who had been photographed without her knowledge or consent.
Based on the volume and nature of the evidence collected, Jacob Marriott was taken into custody on February 11, 2025, and now faces multiple felony charges, including:
- 11 counts of Manufacturing Child Pornography (2nd Degree Felony)
- 4 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (4th Degree Felony)
- 6 counts of Voyeurism of a Child Under 18 (3rd Degree Felony)
This case underscores the seriousness of cyber-based exploitation and the damage such crimes inflict on young victims and their families. Sheriff’s officials expressed deep concern over the emotional toll and lasting trauma caused by these offenses.
“We know that crimes like these leave a lasting impact on our community. The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office is fully committed to protecting our most vulnerable citizens—our children. We will continue to work tirelessly with state and federal partners to bring perpetrators to justice and support the victims impacted by these heinous acts,” said a department spokesperson.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and speak up. Anyone with additional information related to this case—or suspicions about similar activity—is encouraged to contact the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 505-333-7878.
This arrest reflects the power of inter-agency collaboration, and the continued dedication of law enforcement to combat child exploitation in New Mexico. Investigations remain ongoing, and further charges could follow pending the analysis of additional digital evidence.
Let this be a clear message: those who prey on children, whether online or in person, will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
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