PADUCAH, KY — Kentucky State Police arrested Steve Michael McRoberts, 68, on June 15 after an undercover internet investigation into child sexual abuse material. The arrest happened at about 11:44 a.m. and followed work by the agency’s Electronic Crime Branch. Investigators said they first identified McRoberts after discovering images of child sexual exploitation being shared online. A search warrant was later served at a Paducah residence as part of the case.
How the case developed
According to state police, the investigation began through the Internet Crimes Against Children effort, which focuses on online child exploitation cases. Once investigators identified the suspected activity, they moved forward with a search warrant tied to the Paducah home. Items used to facilitate the alleged crime were seized and sent to the KSP forensic laboratory for examination. Officials said the case remains active, with investigators continuing to review the evidence collected during the search.
Charges filed against McRoberts
McRoberts is charged with 10 counts of distribution of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance under 12 and 10 counts of possession of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance under 12. Kentucky State Police said those offenses are Class C felonies. Under state law, each count carries a possible prison term of five to 10 years. McRoberts was lodged in the McCracken County Detention Center following the arrest.
Role of the ICAC task force
The Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force includes more than 26 local, state and federal agencies. It is administered by Kentucky State Police and was created by the U.S. Department of Justice to support investigations involving cyber enticement and child sexual abuse material. The task force also provides forensic help, training, technical assistance, victim services and prevention education. Officials say the program was designed in response to rising internet use among children and teens and the growth of online exploitation by predators.
What investigators say next
State police said the investigation is still ongoing, and the forensic review of seized equipment is part of that process. No additional details about the evidence or the circumstances of the alleged online sharing were released in the announcement. The charges stem from allegations made by investigators and have not been resolved in court. Authorities have not said whether more arrests are expected in connection with the case.
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