Media Release: Possession of Child Pornography Investigation

On July 13, 2023, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in the 300 block of 23rd Street NW, Stewartville, Minn. The investigation leading up to a search warrant was partly from an ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) tip of possible Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), commonly referred to as child pornography.

The suspect was identified as Brett Maronde, a 50-year-old male from Stewartville. Analyzing forensic evidence collected during the investigation revealed several hundred images of suspected CSAM. It should be noted that these are challenging cases for law enforcement. To ensure a thorough examination, examining evidence takes a considerable amount of time, as does obtaining the proper search warrants and following necessary procedures.

As a result of this investigation, The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office referred three counts of Possession of Pornographic Work: Minor Under 14 MN Statute 617.247 to the County Attorney’s Office. The County Attorney’s Office has approved these charges, and Mr. Maronde’s initial court date will be soon.