Russell Co. Man Arrested on Child Sexual Exploitation Charges

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky State Police with the Electronic Crime Branch say they arrested 21-year-old Stephen M. Stargle on Wednesday on charges related to distribution and possession of matter portraying a sex performance by a minor.

Stargle was arrested as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children investigation. The KSP Electronic Crime Branch began the investigation after discovering the suspect sharing images of child sexual exploitation online.

The investigation resulted in the execution of a search warrant at Stargle’s residence in Russell Springs on December 7, 2016. Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and taken to KSP’s forensic laboratory for examination. The investigation is ongoing.

Stargle is currently charged with 30 counts of distribution and 99 counts of possession of matter portraying a sex performance by a minor. Each charge is a Class-D felony punishable by one to five years in prison.

Stargle was taken to the Russell County Detention Center. Additional charges are expected.