MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Division of Drug and Crime Control- P.O. Box 568, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102      

News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Shawn Griggs
573-526-6236
060420-02
June 4, 2020

EMPHASIS: Ironton, Missouri, Man Arrested For Promoting Child Pornography

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Alexander L. Stidem, 24, of Ironton, Missouri, on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, for promoting child pornography. The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensics Investigative Unit. The Patrol was assisted by the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, Ironton Police Department, Mineral Area Drug Task Force, and the Missouri Digital Forensic Center.
On June 3, 2020, investigators executed a search warrant at Stidem’s residence located on Lake Drive, in Ironton. As a result of the search, investigators seized child pornography and computer equipment. Stidem was arrested and transported to the Iron County Jail. On June 4, 2020, the Iron County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Stidem with promoting child pornography. Stidem is currently being held without bond.
The Division of Drug and Crime Control encourages Internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate, or sexualized communications with children. The Digital Forensics Investigative Unit is partially funded by the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The Missouri Digital Forensic Center is a joint effort of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, Missouri Department of Social Services, and the Missouri National Guard Counterdrug Program, and is coordinated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The above charge is mere accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
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