Tempe police search for suspect posting child sex abuse images in public spaces

Tempe police are searching for the person responsible for putting up images of children being sexually abused in public areas.

BY ROXANNE DE LA ROSA

Apr 16, 2025, 3:01 PM Updated: Apr 17, 2025, 11:22 am

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PHOENIX — Tempe police are searching for the person responsible for putting up images of children being sexually abused in public areas.

Since September 2024, police have received nearly a dozen reports of disturbing images of children being found in public places, according to Tempe police.

Details in Tempe police search for person posting child sex abuse photos

The images were reportedly posted on light poles, signage and path markers. Most of the images have been found along the Western Canal that passes through Lakeshore Drive, Vaughn Street and Country Club Way in Tempe.

Additionally, images were found in Mesa and Chandler near Carriage Lane Park and the Western Canal Path and Price Road.

There were incidents when an image was taken down and a new one was posted within 24 hours. The same areas have been targeted multiple times, according to police.

The images are printed on low-quality, adhesive-backed paper and are more than likely made with a home printer.

Police don’t have a description of the suspect but believe the suspect lives or travels along the Western Canal path frequently.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who has information about the crimes is asked to contact Tempe Police at (480) 354-8900.