Authorities in Nevada and California have arrested a 58‑year‑old man from Reno following a multi‑month undercover investigation targeting online child exploitation. The suspect, identified as Robert Popowski, engaged in sexual conversations with an undercover detective who was posing as a 13‑year‑old girl.
Coordinated effort between agencies
The investigation began in July when the Placer County Sheriff’s Office received information indicating that Popowski was seeking sexual contact with a minor online. Detectives from the sheriff’s department worked closely with the Reno Police Department’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit to track the suspect’s digital footprints and arrange a safe encounter.
Under the direction of the Placer County detectives, an undercover officer created a realistic online profile of a 13‑year‑old girl. Over several weeks, Popowski exchanged explicit messages with the decoy, eventually agreeing to meet in person for sexual activity.
Arrest and charges
On October 21, law‑enforcement officers located Popowski in Placer County and placed him under arrest. He was booked into the South Placer Jail on suspicion of lewd or lascivious acts with a child under 14, a serious felony under Nevada law.
“Our top priority is the safety of children, both online and in our communities,” said a spokesperson for the Placer County Sheriff’s Office. “This successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of inter‑agency collaboration and the dedication of our detectives to protect the most vulnerable.”
Community impact
Local leaders praised the swift action, emphasizing that such investigations send a clear message to predators that they will be pursued and held accountable. Parents and community groups have long advocated for stronger safeguards against online exploitation, and this case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and rapid response.
“Parents need to feel confident that law‑enforcement is watching the digital spaces where children spend time,” said a representative from a Reno‑based family advocacy organization. “When agencies work together across state lines, we can stop predators before they cause harm.”
What families can do
Officials encourage parents to maintain open communication with their children about internet safety, to monitor online activity, and to report any suspicious behavior to local authorities. Resources for reporting online child exploitation are available through the Nevada Department of Public Safety and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
As the investigation continues, the Placer County Sheriff’s Office and Reno Police Department will keep the public informed of any further developments. The arrest serves as a reminder that vigilant, cooperative law‑enforcement efforts are essential to safeguarding children in the digital age.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
