New York State Police have arrested a local man in connection with the online exploitation of a 15-year-old girl in Steuben County.
On February 12, 20-year-old William Kibler of Corning was taken into custody following an investigation into the case. A second suspect, 24-year-old Jacob Hanes of Palm Desert, California, was previously arrested on December 30 in Niagara County.
Both men face charges of Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child Less Than 17 and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
The investigation began in late November 2025 after the victim’s parents discovered evidence of inappropriate online communications. The State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation determined that Kibler and Hanes allegedly engaged in sexually explicit communications with the minor via platforms including Snapchat and Instagram. Forensic analysis of electronic devices reportedly confirmed the exchange of sexually explicit images and videos while the suspects allegedly knew the victim was under 17.
Kibler is currently held at the Steuben County Jail pending centralized arraignment. Both defendants await further court proceedings.
The investigation was conducted by the New York State Police with assistance from Troop A, the Troop E Computer Crimes Unit, and the Steuben County District Attorney’s Office.
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.
