A federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington has indicted Jonathan Michael Atkinson, age 34, on 11 counts of serious criminal charges, including sex trafficking children, production and attempted production of child pornography, online enticement of a minor, and forced labor. The charges, announced by Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker, could lead to a maximum sentence of up to life in prison if he is found guilty.
Atkinson was apprehended on April 8, 2025, by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, with assistance from several agencies such as Homeland Security Investigations, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Additional support was provided by the Pasco Police Department, ATF, and DEA. He is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court on April 10, 2025.
Richard R. Barker emphasized the commitment of the U.S. Attorney's office to prosecute human trafficking cases, saying, "The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking." He noted their efforts to collaborate with various law enforcement agencies to protect vulnerable individuals.
Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle, highlighted the importance of partnerships in combating human trafficking, stating, "Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships."
Assistant United States Attorneys Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter are leading the prosecution for this case, which was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Authorities have urged anyone with information regarding the case to contact the Pasco Police Department.
It is important to remember that an indictment is an allegation, and the defendant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.