Jonesboro Resident Arrested on Charges of Child Exploitation

JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro resident has been arrested and is facing charges related to child exploitation after a search warrant was executed at his residence by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Division of the Jonesboro Police Department.

Lonnie Simpson Jr. was arrested Sunday morning and booked into the Craighead County Detention Center at 6 AM, jail records show. He is being held on a $100,000 bond.

The Jonesboro Police Department described the incidents leading to the arrest in a press release posted to their Facebook page on Monday. In recent weeks, detectives from the ICAC Division received multiple cyber tips regarding the uploading of images depicting child exploitation onto Simpson’s social media page. Acting on this information, officers obtained Simpson’s address and proceeded to execute a search warrant on July 6th.

During the search, detectives discovered various electronic devices, including computers, cellular phones, video cameras, and tapes, which were subsequently seized for further analysis by the department’s forensics team. Additionally, zip-lock bags containing a small bra, a sleeping pill, panties belonging to a child, and hair were found at the residence.

Further examination of Simpson’s electronic devices revealed numerous images depicting child exploitation, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Simpson was apprehended on Sunday and taken to jail.

Simpson appeared before a judge today. In addition to the bond requirement, he received an ankle monitor and strict conditions that prohibit him from accessing the internet upon his release.

The JPD’s ICAC Division is dedicated to investigating crimes related to the exploitation of children. Their quick action in this case highlights their commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals.

The department urges anyone with additional information related to this case or other potential incidents of child exploitation to come forward and assist in their ongoing efforts to safeguard the community.

Featured photo/mugshot courtesy JPD