A former correction sergeant with the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office has been arrested following a months-long child exploitation investigation involving New York State Police and the state’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
32-year-old Robert “Tyler” Williams, of Waterloo, was taken into custody on December 23 without incident. He faces two class E felony charges: criminal possession of a sexual performance by a child and criminal possession of a firearm.
State Police say the investigation began in September after a referral from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Investigators executed court-authorized search warrants and conducted forensic analysis of electronic devices before making the arrest.
Williams was processed at the State Police Waterloo barracks and remanded to the Seneca County Jail pending arraignment in Centralized Arraignment Court. The investigation remains ongoing.
Seneca County Sheriff Timothy J. Thompson, Jr., released a statement addressing the matter:
“I am aware of extremely disturbing allegations involving a former correction sergeant of this Office. Like everyone, I am shocked and deeply disturbed by these allegations. This alleged conduct is in no way reflective of the values or standards of this organization.
“The correction sergeant is no longer employed by this Office, and the matter is being investigated by an outside agency to ensure transparency and impartiality. This Office is working with the outside agency to provide any assistance needed and will continue to cooperate fully.
“In addition to severing employment and assisting the outside agency with the investigation, we consistently review our hiring practices to ensure compliance with professional standards. Since taking office on January 1, 2024, we have made significant improvements to the background investigation process, including job-specific psychological examinations, polygraph examinations, and panel interviews.
“As your Sheriff, I will continue to work tirelessly to protect and serve with integrity and professionalism. I stand united with this community and members of the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office in condemning this alleged behavior.”
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
