WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah — A Utah judge, known for his engagement with community youth, was arrested on allegations of sending sexual images and videos to young girls via an online messaging platform, authorities revealed. Kevin Robert Christensen, 64, of Box Elder County, was apprehended by the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Investigations into Christensen’s online activities began on Feb. 28 following tips about his inappropriate communications. Evidence gathered pointed to several explicit conversations with minors that dated back to last September. Notably, Christensen was reported to have exchanged sexually explicit material with someone he believed was a 13-year-old girl. During this alleged incident, a video involving an adult male performing a sexual act was sent, while Christensen reportedly described their conversations as “fantasy.”
Further inquiries revealed discussions where Christensen purportedly shared his detailed interest in children with other adults through the KIK messaging platform. This platform was also used to solicit and exchange graphic images of minors, setting a dramatic contrast against his public role in educating and guiding youth.
The depth of the allegations and the breach of trust have sent ripples through the community, prompting calls for a thorough review of his past interactions. “The actions of someone in such a trusted position cast a long shadow over the integrity of our judicial system,” read part of a police statement.
Christensen, who has been involved in law and community service for decades, was charged with multiple felonies. These include two counts of enticing a minor, two counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, and two counts of dealing materials harmful to a minor. He was held without bail at Davis County Jail.
Appointed to the Box Elder County Justice Court in May 1996, Christensen’s career prior to his arrest spanned various capacities within the legal domain, including private practice. His contributions to law-related education won him the Scott M. Matheson Award in 2006. Notwithstanding his judicial accomplishments, Christensen frequently spoke to youth and civic groups about the judicial system, balancing his professional responsibilities with community engagement.
In response to these serious allegations, county officials swiftly placed Christensen on administrative leave without pay. The legal proceedings and further investigations into Christensen’s activities remain closely watched by both local residents and the broader legal community.
This disturbing case underscores the critical importance of safeguarding children in digital realms, particularly from those in positions of considerable influence and trust. The incident has also sparked a dialogue on monitoring and preventative measures needed to protect vulnerable communities more effectively.
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