A federal investigation into child sexual abuse material distributed through the darknet reached Southern Oregon Wednesday morning when federal, state and local investigators searched a Medford residence and seized digital devices for forensic examination.
Homeland Security Investigations and the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team served a federal search warrant Sept. 2 at a residence in the 3000 block of Marilee Street. The investigation originated overseas after German authorities identified a potential suspect believed to be in the Medford area during an investigation involving child sexual abuse material, commonly referred to by law enforcement as CSAM.
According to investigators, the Medford investigation is connected to material purchased from a darknet website used to distribute child sexual abuse content. Information developed through the German investigation was ultimately connected to Southern Oregon, leading authorities to obtain the federal warrant.
Investigators interviewed potential witnesses and other involved parties at the residence while officers searched the property. Digital devices were seized and turned over to the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force, where forensic specialists will examine them for evidence related to the possession, purchase or distribution of child sexual abuse material.
Authorities had not publicly identified a suspect Wednesday and did not announce any arrests resulting from the search. Investigators said they are continuing their work to identify the person responsible and intend to refer potential federal criminal charges to the United States Attorney’s Office if the evidence supports prosecution.
The operation brought together several agencies from across Southern Oregon and the state. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Medford Police Department, Oregon State Police and the Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force assisted Homeland Security Investigations and the Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team with execution of the warrant.
The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team has operated since June 2020 as a multi-agency unit focused on investigating crimes involving the exploitation of children. Its investigators represent the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Medford Police Department, Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations, working alongside prosecutors at the local, state and federal levels.
The Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force provides specialized investigative and forensic support in cases involving computers, mobile devices and other electronic evidence. Investigators from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations and Medford Police Department participate in the task force.
The seized devices could provide investigators with additional evidence as forensic examinations continue. Authorities are also conducting additional witness interviews while determining the identity and potential criminal involvement of the Medford-area suspect.
No arrest or criminal charges had been announced in connection with the Medford search Wednesday, and investigators said no additional information would be released at this stage of the investigation.