Undercover operation arrests suspected online predator
SACRAMENTO—The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has arrested Michael Dominic Thomas Lumsden, 39, of Sacramento, following an undercover CHP operation targeting individuals who engage in sexually exploitative behavior toward children online.
On July 24, a suspect began communicating online with someone he believed was a 13-year-old female. The child was, in fact, an undercover investigator with the CHP’s Computer Crimes Investigation Unit (CCIU). The suspect sent sexually explicit messages and made arrangements to meet the child in person. Over the next several days, CHP investigators conducted additional follow-up and collected evidence.
On July 31, just before 4 a.m., CCIU investigators arrested Lumsden after he attempted to meet the child in person in Sacramento. Officers booked Lumsden into the Sacramento County Main Jail on multiple felony charges, including arranging a meeting with a minor under the age of 18 with the intent to engage in sexual conduct, attempted lewd acts with a child under 14, and sending harmful material to a minor. The suspect was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail.
“This arrest highlights the relentless work of our computer crimes investigators. Their dedication protects our most vulnerable, and their efforts to bring predators to justice will not stop.” -Chief Josh Ehlers
The CCIU specializes in investigating computer-facilitated crimes and supports state agencies and allied law enforcement partners throughout California. In addition to assisting with digital forensic analysis and cyber investigations, the unit actively conducts proactive child exploitation and child sexual abuse material (CSAM) investigations, including identifying individuals who distribute or download high volumes of CSAM while attempting to avoid detection.
With increased staffing and resources, the CCIU is expanding its capacity to conduct proactive investigations, surveillance, execute search warrants, and recover digital evidence. The unit also works closely with the Sacramento Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to combat the growing use of the internet to exploit children sexually.
The CHP remains committed to protecting children and providing the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to everyone in California.