A disturbing development has emerged out of Moses Lake, where a homicide investigation has led detectives to uncover evidence of child sexual abuse material on a suspect’s phone, triggering a parallel criminal investigation into child exploitation.
According to the Moses Lake Police Department (MLPD), while conducting a thorough forensic analysis of a suspect’s digital devices during an ongoing homicide investigation, detectives discovered images and videos depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This shocking and deeply troubling discovery prompted the immediate launch of a separate, parallel investigation.
Acting on this new evidence, MLPD detectives swiftly obtained a search warrant, which was executed on the morning of July 11, 2025, in the 2100 block of Willow Street. The operation was carried out with the assistance of the Moses Lake Regional Tactical Response Team, who ensured the scene was secured without incident.
During the search, investigators identified and detained a 17-year-old male, who was then taken into custody and booked into juvenile detention on charges of Possession of Depictions of a Minor Engaged in Sexually Explicit Conduct. Authorities have not released the suspect’s name due to his age.
Investigation Still Active
This case remains an active and ongoing investigation, and authorities have emphasized that no further information will be released at this time to preserve the integrity of the process and to protect the privacy of potential victims.
The Moses Lake Police Department is working in collaboration with digital forensic experts, child exploitation task forces, and prosecuting attorneys to determine the full scope of the material discovered and any possible connections to other individuals or crimes.
Community Concerns
The news of a juvenile arrest tied to child sexual abuse material has left the community shaken and raised serious concerns about the reach and impact of such crimes. Law enforcement officials are reminding the public that child exploitation is a serious felony offense and that the possession, distribution, or production of such content is aggressively pursued under state and federal law.
Anyone with information related to this investigation or concerns about child exploitation in their community is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) through their CyberTipline at by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
The Moses Lake Police Department has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children and bringing those who exploit them to justice.
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