Tyler Michael Baehr, a former officer with the Reno Police Department, appeared in court facing charges of civil rights violations. Baehr, 30, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of deprivation of rights under color of law. His court date is set for April 8 before United States District Judge Miranda M. Du, with United States Magistrate Judge Craig S. Denney overseeing the proceedings.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office release, the indictment states that Baehr is accused of abusing his authority during routine traffic stops. On December 31, 2023, he allegedly violated an individual's right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure by taking her phone and accessing explicit photos. On August 12, 2024, he is accused of improperly searching another individual's private photos and messages during a separate stop. Baehr faces up to two years in prison if convicted.
Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson is handling the prosecution, with the investigation conducted by the FBI and Sparks Police Department. Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami and Acting FBI Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz announced the indictment. Baehr remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
A federal district court judge will decide Baehr's sentence, taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
