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 Bradley R. Germann      
573-526-6122
02/03/2025
February 3, 2025

EMPHASIS: Bonne Terre, Missouri, Man Arrested for Promoting Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography


The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Sean C. Paul II, 21, of Bonne Terre, Mo.
Paul II was arrested on January 29, 2025, for one count of promoting child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. The arrest followed an investigation by the Special Victims Unit of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control.

In January 2025, while conducting an online child pornography investigation, investigators with the Special Victims Unit identified a device associated with the internet account of Paul II, which had distributed digital files via a messaging app, identified as child pornography.

On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, investigators contacted Paul II at his residence in St. Francois County, Missouri. After investigators interviewed Paul II, he was arrested and transported to the St. Francois County Jail. On Thursday, January 30, 2025, the St. Francois County Prosecuting Attorney formally charged Paul II with one count of promoting child pornography, and two counts of possession of child pornography. Paul II is currently being held in the St. Francois County Jail with a $100,000 bond.

The above charges are a mere accusation and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

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.

Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperDDCC


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