A former officer of the Reno Police Department, Tyler Michael Baehr, has been indicted on charges related to civil rights violations. The federal grand jury indictment accuses Baehr, aged 30, of depriving two individuals of their rights by engaging in unreasonable search and seizure under color of law.
Baehr appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Craig S. Denney for his initial court appearance. A jury trial is set for April 8, 2025, with United States District Judge Miranda M. Du presiding over the case.
The allegations in the indictment claim that on December 31, 2023, Baehr unlawfully seized a woman's cellular phone during a traffic stop and accessed sexually explicit photos without her consent. Another incident on August 12, 2024, involves Baehr allegedly searching through another woman's private photos and messages after taking her phone during a routine stop.
If found guilty of these charges, Baehr could face up to two years in prison. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami alongside Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz for the FBI.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI in collaboration with the Sparks Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson is handling the prosecution.
It is important to note that an indictment serves as an allegation and all defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.