Maricopa County has witnessed a horrific case of child exploitation, serving as a disturbing reminder of the dangers that lurk on online platforms. Christopher Delaney, a young man born in July 2004, was sentenced to 28 years in jail after being convicted of attempting to trade child sex abuse materials (CSAM) for the opportunity to sexually abuse two youngsters. This act of horror was prevented thanks to the attentive action of local officials, who were able to thwart the prospective abuse.
According to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children was instrumental when a CyberTip detected Delaney’s concerning statements on Sniffies, a dating app. Chandler Police investigators jumped into action, questioning Delaney about his plans to torture a 7-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl, including the use of drugs and restraints.
On probation and wearing an ankle monitor, Delaney directed the children to his home. An undercover detective, assuming the identity of the children’s parent, devised a plan to transport them to Delaney, thereby establishing the foundation for an arrest. When the detective arrived, Delaney exited his residence, clutching a “rape kit” containing body oil, zip ties, melatonin gummies, beverages, and drug-use devices. He also had a flash drive with over 100 CSAM files on it.
The Maricopa County Attorney’s office issued a stern statement saying, “This case is a reminder of the dangers our children face and the lengths some will go to exploit them.” Delaney pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, which is a Class Two Felony and a Dangerous Crime against Children. The Chandler Police Department and the prosecution team worked together to prevent Delaney from carrying out his nefarious plans on a real child.