GARLAND, Utah — Ned Brady Hansen, the fire chief of Tremonton, has been arrested and charged with eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor following an investigation into the sharing of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) online. The charges stem from a report submitted to law enforcement by the Kik messaging app, which flagged several disturbing videos and images linked to Hansen’s account.
According to Brigham City Police, officers contacted Hansen at his Garland residence, where he confirmed ownership of the Kik account in question. During the questioning, Hansen admitted to possessing CSAM, though he was uncertain whether he had shared the material with others or received it from other users. He did, however, acknowledge that sharing such content was an activity he had participated in.
Each of the eight charges against Hansen corresponds to one individual file of CSAM that he is accused of distributing. The investigation, initiated by the cyber tip, has raised alarm among local residents, especially considering Hansen’s prominent role as the fire chief in Tremonton.
Following his arrest, Hansen was promptly dismissed from his position as fire chief. Tremonton City Manager Bill Cobabe confirmed the termination, stating that Hansen’s actions were in violation of the standards expected of public servants.
The case has sparked outrage within the community, as well as across broader law enforcement circles, given the disturbing nature of the allegations. Authorities are continuing to investigate Hansen’s involvement and any potential connections to other individuals involved in the distribution of CSAM.
The charges serve as a stark reminder of the growing concerns surrounding child exploitation online, as well as the critical role that technology and law enforcement play in combating these crimes.
Hansen is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks as the legal proceedings unfold. Local authorities are urging anyone with further information related to the case to come forward.