9OYS Crime Watch
Suspected sexual predator arrested; possibly more victims
Web Producer: Ina Ronquillo
TUCSON (KGUN9-TV) - Deputies have arrested Jonathon Dewayne Peterson, 32, on charges of aggravated luring of a minor and several charges of sexual abuse and furnishing obscene material to a minor.
Deputy Tom Peine tells KGUN9 that on January 21, deputies took a report and secured evidence regarding a possible sexual offenses.
Detectives began their investigation and learned from the parents who had filed the initial report that an adult male had sent nude pictures to their 13-year-old daughter, said Peine.
A forensic investigation of their daughter's cell phone and iPad confirmed the allegations.
The 13-year-old victim revealed she had personal contact with the suspect, who is a friend of
the family. She alleged the suspect had touched her breasts, said Peine.
Detectives obtained a search warrant for the home of Peterson.
Peterson was arrested on February 8, said Peine.
In a separate investigation, detectives with Tucson Police also identified Peterson as a suspect in a case that was under investigation.
Tucson Police and Pima County Sheriff's Department worked in cooperation and found evidence that Peterson had sent sexually explicit pictures to another minor in Tucson and requested to have sex with the girl.
Peterson was located with the help of the United State Marshal Service and arrested again on March 20.
Both agencies believe there may be additional local victims who have not yet been identified
or come forward.
Possible victims and their parents are encouraged to contact 9-1-1 or 88-CRIME.
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