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On Monday, Nov. 18, deputies from the Child Victim Unit received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding an online account involved in uploading and sharing images of child sexual abuse.
NCMEC flagged the account, prompting an investigation by the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office., officials said.
After reviewing the evidence, authorities obtained a search warrant for the residence of Ashley Kriesten in the 9600 block of Leaf Lane. During the search, investigators seized multiple electronic devices.
Kriesten was subsequently arrested and faces the following charges:
- Five counts of possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography;
- Five counts of possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography;
- Two counts of aggravated sexual battery.
The identities and relationships of the juveniles involved are being withheld to protect their privacy and safety, officials said.
Kriesten’s arrest is part of the Sheriff’s Office’s work as a member of the NOVA-DC Internet Crimes Against Children Virginia State Police Task Force, which combats online child exploitation and abuse.
Anyone with information about suspected child abuse or exploitation is urged to contact the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
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