Zoerner’s Sheriff's Office Removes Repeat Child Exploitation Offender Following Multi-Tip Investigation

Sheriff David Zoerner has made the protection of children and families one of the highest priorities of the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office. Under his leadership, the department continues to aggressively investigate internet crimes against children through coordinated efforts between local agencies, state partners, and federal law enforcement.

In October 2024, the Kenosha Police Department received a cyber tip involving the distribution of suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through a messaging platform. The investigation initially involved a 45-year-old male residing in the City of Kenosha, later identified as Julio Nieto-Gutierrez. As the subject moved into the Village of Salem Lakes, the investigation was transferred to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office.

Over the following months, investigators received multiple additional cyber tips involving the same individual. These tips, spanning from January through August 2025, indicated continued alleged distribution of CSAM across multiple messaging platforms, including WhatsApp and Snapchat.

Detectives also identified a vehicle associated with the suspect and learned he had an active felony warrant out of Arizona related to larceny and a probation/parole violation. This information was shared with patrol deputies to assist in locating him.

On November 12, 2025, a Kenosha County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. The suspect was located as a passenger and was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Kenosha County Jail and booked on outstanding charges and warrants.

The following day, detectives executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, where multiple electronic devices were seized for forensic examination, including cell phones, laptops, and tablets. Additional items, including marijuana and paraphernalia, were also recovered as evidence.

The suspect is currently being held in the Kenosha County Jail on multiple felony counts related to possession of child sexual abuse material, as well as the outstanding Arizona felony warrant.

Following the arrest, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office coordinated with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), resulting in an ICE detainer being placed on the suspect.

“The protection of Kenosha County’s children and families will always be at the core of our mission. These investigations require persistence, coordination, and teamwork. We value our strong working relationships with partner agencies, including ICE, and maintain ongoing communication to ensure individuals who exploit children are identified, apprehended, and held accountable. This case reflects our continued commitment to the safety of the people we serve.”

Sheriff Zoerner has emphasized continued investment in digital forensic capabilities and interagency cooperation to combat internet crimes against children. The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to identifying offenders, protecting victims, and ensuring that those who exploit children are brought to justice.