PORTAGE, WI — A 20-year-old man has been arrested by Portage Police on multiple felony counts related to the possession of child pornography, following a cyber tip that originated from a national effort to detect and combat online child exploitation.
According to the Portage Police Department (PPD), officers took Cameron D. Lee into custody on June 12, 2025, after a collaborative investigation involving both state and national agencies. Lee now faces seven felony counts of Possession of Child Pornography, with authorities saying additional charges could be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Origin of Investigation: Cyber Tip from ICAC
The case began when the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Division received a cyber tip on June 6. That tip, originating from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), indicated that explicit material involving minors had been detected on the servers of Snapchat, a popular social media platform.
Snapchat, like many digital service providers, participates in mandated monitoring and reporting procedures. When suspected child exploitation material is identified, it must be reported to NCMEC, which then works with local and federal law enforcement to investigate and take action.
After analyzing the data and tracing its source, investigators were able to connect the images and videos to an account linked to Cameron D. Lee. That led local officers to begin a formal investigation in cooperation with state cybercrime experts.
Arrest and Legal Action
On the morning of June 12, Portage Police executed a warrant at Lee’s residence. During the search, digital evidence was seized, and Lee was taken into custody without incident. Authorities have not yet released whether the content found involves locally known victims or was part of a broader online distribution network.
Lee is currently being held pending an initial court appearance. If convicted on all charges, he could face significant prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and other long-term legal consequences.
Ongoing Investigation
The PPD and ICAC investigators are continuing to examine Lee’s electronic devices and online history. Forensic teams are working to determine whether the suspect engaged in the production or distribution of illegal material, or if he communicated with minors via social media.
Additional digital evidence may lead to further charges or arrests, depending on what is uncovered.
Public Safety and Prevention
Portage Police emphasized the importance of vigilant internet monitoring by parents and guardians, especially in an era where children have increasing access to smartphones and digital platforms. The arrest also highlights the vital role that national and state cybercrime networks play in tracking and prosecuting these serious offenses.
Chief of Police [Name], in a statement, thanked the Wisconsin DOJ ICAC unit and NCMEC for their assistance, saying:
“Our department is committed to the safety of all children, and we are grateful for the tools and partnerships that allow us to pursue these cases and hold offenders accountable. We urge families to talk openly with their children about internet safety.”
Community Impact and Resources
The case has prompted concern among Portage residents, many of whom are expressing outrage and heartbreak at the news. Community organizations are encouraging parents to monitor their children’s digital activity and utilize parental control tools.
The Wisconsin DOJ ICAC Division and NCMEC offer resources to families for identifying warning signs and protecting children online. Schools and public libraries may also host workshops in response to local concerns.
How to Report Suspected Child Exploitation
Anyone with information related to this investigation or who suspects child pornography or exploitation online is encouraged to report it immediately to:
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC): or 1-800-THE-LOST
- Portage Police Department: (608) 742-2174
- Wisconsin Department of Justice ICAC Division
This is an active and developing case. Portage Police say more information will be released as the investigation progresses and legal proceedings unfold.
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