Child exploitation search warrant served in Ashland

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January 14, 2025

21-year-old suspect arrested on outstanding warrants

By Morgan Rothborne, Ashland.news 

An Ashland man was arrested after an ongoing investigation “into child exploitation and internet crimes against children” led to execution of a search warrant on Alida Street early Tuesday, according to a news release from the Ashland Police Department.

Eight law enforcement and criminal justice agencies worked together to serve the search warrant. Officers from the Ashland Police Department, Medford Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Talent Police Department, Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, Department of Homeland Security, the Oregon Department of Justice, and the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force converged on the Ashland address, according to the release. 

Donovan Jesus Aquino, 21, was arrested on two outstanding warrants, according to the APD release. The warrants were not listed in the release. Aquino was listed as lodged in the Jackson County Jail on seven charges: criminal mischief in the second degree, two counts of failure to appear for a charge of second-degree criminal mischief, two counts of failure to appear for a charge of reckless driving, two warrants each for two counts of failure to appear for charges of reckless endangering, and two warrants each for two counts of failure to appear for driving under the influence. One DUII was listed as alcohol and one as controlled substances. 

 All charges were listed without bail and no release date was given, according to the Jackson County Jail roster. 

“This significant action underscores the continued commitment of local, state, and federal agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable individuals,” the release said. 

Reached by phone Wednesday morning, Ashland Police Chief Tighe O’Meara said this is likely the beginning of a longer investigation. Detective Lacie Six of the APD will be leading the investigation and those who wish to share information related to Aquino can reach her at 541-552-2125. 

Email Ashland.news reporter Morgan Rothborne at [email protected].

Jan. 15: Information added after Chief O’Meara was reached.

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Bert Etling

Bert Etling is the executive editor of Ashland.news. Email him at [email protected].

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