HSI Phoenix, Pinal County Sheriff's Office Arrest Alleged Child Predator

PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. — A San Tan Valley man was arrested June 12 on charges related to downloading child sexual abuse material. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Pinal County Sheriff's Office are investigating the case.

Ian Sutherlin, 28, of Phoenix, was identified by HSI during an investigation into online child exploitation. Sutherlin was in possession of downloaded child sexual abuse material and was taken into custody June 12 without incident. A search warrant was served at his residence immediately following his arrest.

Sutherlin was booked into the Pinal County Detention Facility on multiple counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and is being held on a $10,000 bond.

“I think we can all agree that one of the most despicable things is for someone to take advantage of or exploit a child,” said Sheriff Mark Lamb. “I applaud HSI and my detectives for their quick work taking this suspect into custody.”

The Pinal County Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, and the investigation remains active.

HSI is a global leader in the fight against child exploitation. Last year, HSI special agents dedicated 1.2 million case hours toward investigating child exploitation. This heinous crime harms the most vulnerable in our society: our kids. As technology evolves and more people have access to the internet, children are at a greater risk than ever. HSI’s special agents and analysts around the world are dedicated to countering this threat.

Report suspected child exploitation to the HSI tip line at 877-4-HSI-TIP or through the CyberTipline on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children's website.