Kentucky State Police arrest Williamsburg man in Child Sexual Abuse Material investigation

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Electronic Crime Branch has arrested 24-year-old Tanner Isaiah Caine Petrey in connection with a child sexual abuse material investigation. The arrest occurred on June 27, 2024, around 2:00 p.m.

According to KSP, the investigation began after receiving a complaint that Petrey was sharing sexually explicit images of juveniles on an online social media account. As part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigation, KSP interviewed Petrey and seized electronic devices from his home, which are believed to have been used to facilitate the crime. These devices were sent to KSP’s forensic laboratory for further examination.

Petrey faces 20 counts of distributing matter portraying a minor over 12 but under 18 in a sexual performance. This charge is classified as a Class-D felony and carries a potential sentence of one to five years in prison. Petrey is currently being held at the Whitley County Detention Center.