Child Pornography

08/07/2012 | Sgt. Leanne Worthen, Public Affairs Unit

On Tuesday, August 7, 2012, members of the Arizona Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (AZ ICAC) from the Tucson Police Department, Phoenix Police Department and Yuma Police Detectives arrested a Yuma High School teacher for ten counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

The investigation began about a month ago when an internet investigation was initiated by the AZ ICAC. Yuma Police Detectives assisted AZ ICAC with the execution of the search warrant. Michael A Cox, 37 years old from Yuma was found in possession of pornographic images of children on his computer. The search warrant was served today at his home in the 2900 block of South Palo Verde Lane, in which detectives seized several electronic media devices.

During the interview, COX admitted he was in possession of videos and pictures of young children being sexually abused.

Cox was arrested and booked into the Yuma County Adult Detention Facility for ten counts of sexual exploitation of a minor.

The Arizona Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (AZ ICAC) helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to cyber enticement and child pornography cases. This help encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services and community education.

The case remains under investigation by AZ ICAC. The Yuma Police Department encourages anyone with information or questions about this case to log on to www.AZICAC.org (This link will take you to an external website that is not part of the City of Yuma official website.) or contact the Yuma Police Department Investigations Bureau at (928) 373-4600 or 78-Crime to remain anonymous.