Zoerner-Led Multi-State Investigation Leads to Arrest in Child Exploitation Case

Sheriff David Zoerner has made the protection of children a top priority of the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department. Under his leadership, the department continues to aggressively pursue individuals who exploit children, working closely with law enforcement partners across state lines to identify, investigate, and prosecute offenders.

In February 2024, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department Sensitive Crimes Unit received a tip originating out of Rock Springs, Wyoming regarding concerning online activity involving a Salem Lakes resident. The report indicated the suspect had allegedly attempted to meet with a minor child. Detectives immediately initiated an investigation and began coordinating with Wyoming law enforcement.

Over the following months, Kenosha County detectives worked closely with out-of-state and Wisconsin-based partners to identify the suspect as Shane B. Wilson, a 55-year-old resident of Salem Lakes, Wisconsin. Through coordinated investigative efforts, detectives gathered evidence and developed probable cause for search and arrest warrants.

On June 13, 2024, Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department detectives executed an arrest and search warrant at the suspect’s residence. The suspect was taken into custody without incident. During the search, detectives recovered a significant amount of additional evidence consistent with child sexual exploitation offenses.

Shane B. Wilson was arrested and charged with multiple counts related to possession of child sexual abuse material and sexual exploitation of a child. The investigation remains active, and additional charges may be filed as forensic analysis continues.

The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department was assisted throughout the investigation by multiple partner agencies, including the Racine County Sheriff’s Office, Kenosha Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation.

“This case reflects the relentless work of our detectives and our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those who prey on children. We will continue to devote every available resource to investigating these crimes and ensuring that individuals who exploit the innocent are brought to justice. Protecting children is not just a duty—it is our highest responsibility.”

Sheriff Zoerner has continued to expand the capabilities of the Sensitive Crimes Unit and strengthen partnerships with state and federal agencies to combat internet crimes against children. The Sheriff’s Department remains committed to pursuing offenders wherever they may be and ensuring the safety and protection of children throughout Kenosha County.