A federal grand jury has indicted Justin Johiah Curtright, 40, and Christin Marie Curtright, 32, a couple from Springfield, Missouri. The charges relate to the alleged abduction and sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl they reportedly groomed online. This indictment follows their arrest last month on a federal criminal complaint.
The couple is charged with coercion and enticement of a minor, conspiracy and transportation of a minor in interstate commerce for criminal sexual activity, and three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Each charge carries significant mandatory minimum prison sentences, with the potential for life imprisonment if convicted.
Court documents reveal that in May 2024, the victim met Justin Curtright on Discord. Initially using an alias and claiming to be 18 years old, she later admitted her true age during conversations that included both Justin and his wife Christin. The Curtrights allegedly engaged in sexually explicit acts on camera with the victim.
In late June 2024, the couple allegedly planned to travel to Virginia to abduct the victim. On July 24, they picked her up near her home and drove back to Missouri while reportedly taking turns assaulting her. They continued the abuse at their apartment until police intervention on July 27 led to the girl's rescue.
Officers found recordings on the Curtrights’ phones showing video chats involving grooming and exploitation of the victim. Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee and FBI Special Agent Stanley M. Meador announced these developments.
The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies including the FBI and Springfield Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Drew O. Inman is prosecuting this case under Project Safe Childhood—a DOJ initiative aimed at protecting children from exploitation.
An indictment remains an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in court proceedings.