A Manitowoc man has been arrested on charges of possessing child pornography, according to local police officials. Following an investigation spurred by a tip from the Wisconsin Department of Justice, 47-year-old Steven J. Wester was booked into the Manitowoc County Jail in mid-December. WeAreGreenBay reports the tip involved the suspect allegedly uploading an image to a search engine in an attempt to locate similar material.
During the execution of the search warrant on Kellner Street, electronic devices were seized that later revealed numerous images and videos categorized as child sexual abuse material, specifically depicting children in the 12-14 age range. With the evidence in hand, law enforcement is currently reaching out for potential victims due to Wester's history with area youth sports. Detected being involved with youth sports in the past, Wester had been investigated concerning behavior mirroring this case's nature.
In their efforts to identify additional victims, the Manitowoc Police Department has made a public call for information. "If you are a victim yourself, or are aware of any other potential victims," the NBC 26 staff quoted authorities, Manitowoc Police encourages those affected to contact Detective Jason Denk or the Manitowoc Police Department Shift Commanders Office. Confidential tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers or the P3 App.
As the legal proceedings begin, it should be noted that while the accused has been arrested, he has yet to be convicted of the charges. The Manitowoc community has been alerted and is on high alert, looking to support the ongoing investigation. To gather further information, anyone with knowledge about such activities involving Wester, they are urged to come forward. Additional details on the case are scarce, but the Manitowoc Police Department promises updates as the investigation unfolds as stated by WBAY.
