Effingham Police Department issued the following announcement on Sept. 26.
An Effingham man was arrested on September 25, 2018 for a
warrant issued in Effingham County for the charge of
Grooming. Justin C. Winterrowd, 22, was taken into custody
late Tuesday afternoon after a warrant was issued for his
arrest Tuesday morning.
Effingham Police Department received a report from a Law
Enforcement Agency in Washington State in late August which
stated that a child victim who lived in their jurisdiction had
received a nude photograph from a male subject who lived in
Effingham. Effingham Bureau of Criminal Investigations
Detectives followed up on the information provided, and were
able to positively identify Winterrowd as the suspect.
After an initial interview, an examination was conducted of Winterrowd’s cellular device, using
technology recently purchased by Effingham Police Department with asset forfeiture funds. The
forensics analysis showed information which linked the suspect to the victim, and provided critical
evidence for the case. Based upon the initial investigation and evidence, Effingham County State’s
Attorney was granted a warrant for Winterrowd’s arrest on the charge of Grooming, which is a Class 4
Felony. Bond was set at $100,000, with 10% to apply. Winterrowd is currently incarcerated at
Effingham County Jail.
Chief Jeffrey Fuesting stated, “The ability to have software which aids in fighting crimes using current
technology is an enormous benefit for our department. This cell phone computer forensics analysis
software, which was just recently purchased with funds from asset forfeiture, has already helped our
Detectives in two cases which have led to arrests. As technology keeps advancing, it is important that
Law Enforcement utilizes current knowledge and equipment to fight technology crimes. Citizens can be
assured that Effingham Police Department has a commitment to keeping the community safe, and will
continue to utilize any and all resources available to do so.”
If you see it, say it! The Effingham Police Department encourages you to call the police department
immediately at 217-347-0774 to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood or business district.
Information can be given anonymously by calling the CRIMESTOPPERS Tip Line at 217-347-6583.
Anonymous callers can receive up to $1,000 cash rewards
Original source can be found here.
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