SEDGWICK COUNTY, Kan. — Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter has requested the Wichita Police Department (WPD) launch a criminal investigation into a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office (SGSO) detective assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) section within the Exploited and Missing Children's Unit (EMCU). A review revealed improper case closures and a failure to thoroughly investigate criminal complaints from 2019 to 2024.

In late December 2024, SGSO initiated an administrative review of the cases managed by the detective after identifying potential issues. Upon determining that criminal conduct may have occurred, SGSO notified WPD and activated the Wichita and Sedgwick County Advanced Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) to conduct a criminal investigation.

Upon completing the criminal investigation, WPD will present the findings to the appropriate charging authority for formal charging consideration. 

The detective, who was assigned to EMCU in 2019 and transferred to ICAC in 2021, is currently on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of both the criminal investigation and an internal review.

EMCU investigators will re-contact individuals involved in these cases. These trauma-informed and trained professionals will ensure each case undergoes a thorough review. All involved cases will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration.

Given the sensitive and ongoing nature of this investigation, no additional details will be provided at this time to protect the integrity of the process and the privacy of survivors. 

The EMCU, a collaborative effort between the SGSO, WPD, and Kansas Department for Children and Families, investigates serious crimes against children. For nearly four decades, this unique partnership has been a cornerstone of child protection efforts in Kansas and beyond. The SGSO and its partner agencies remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of investigative practices and survivor care in all cases.

All updates from this point forward will be provided by the Wichita Police Department consistent with ALERT protocol.

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