In a coordinated law enforcement effort against child exploitation, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, known as Rocky, was apprehended on charges of receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography. The arrest took place on Thursday in Wayne County, Michigan, and stemmed from activities conducted between April 15 and May 1, 2025.
The investigation initiated when an FBI agent, using the BitTorrent peer-to-peer file-sharing network on April 29, identified an Internet Protocol address distributing files suggestive of child pornography. After examining approximately 530 files shared from this address, the material was confirmed to include explicit images of children, some as young as four to ten years old, in sexual acts.
A federal search warrant led to the seizure of a desktop computer and an external hard drive from Rocky's residence. The computer contained a German-named file depicting child sexual activity, while the external drive held videos of children and teenagers in sexual acts. CBS News reported file names consistent with those typically associated with child pornography.
The CBP was quick to address the situation, with a spokesperson highlighting the agency's commitment to integrity and stating that this incident does not represent the collective honor and dedication of the vast majority of CBP officers. The agency assured the public of its full cooperation with ongoing criminal and administrative investigations and stressed the importance of maintaining integrity, both on and off duty.
This case is not an isolated incident but part of a larger, ongoing effort by law enforcement to combat online child exploitation. Federal agencies are intensifying their focus on detecting and preventing such crimes, demonstrating the gravity of the threat posed by digital platforms in the hands of online predators.
The arrest also raises concerns about the efficacy of background checks and internal oversight within federal agencies. It emphasizes the need for continual vigilance to preserve the integrity of public service institutions. The CBP's response to the incident reaffirms its resolve to eliminate corruption and misconduct from within its ranks.
As Rocky faces the legal repercussions of his actions, the case may influence future CBP policies and practices regarding officer conduct and online activities. The unfolding details of this case serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against child exploitation, requiring the concerted efforts of federal agencies and the public to protect the most vulnerable.