The Atchison County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of Dustin Watson, Tarkio, Missouri, following an investigation into statutory rape. After a thorough review of evidence gathered during this investigation, a probable cause statement was submitted to the Atchison County Prosecutor’s Office.

A warrant for Dustin Watson was issued for the following charges: Possession of Child Pornography, 1st Offense, Felony D; Possession of Child Pornography, 2nd Subsequent Offense or Possession of 20 Pictures/One Film/Video Tape, Felony B; Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Felony B; Statutory Rape, Second Degree, Felony D; Child, Molestation, Second Degree Aggravated Sexual Offense Child Less Than 17 Years of Age and Offender Greater Than Four Years Older, Felony B.

Watson is being held without bond.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with the Buchanan County Cyber Crimes Division, Tarkio Police Department, and the Atchison County Prosecutor to ensure that all aspects of the case are fully addressed. Additional details will be released as they become available and as the investigation allows.

Sheriff Riley stated, “We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that thorough investigations are conducted in the interest of public safety. We appreciate the cooperation of the public and our law enforcement partners during this case.”

All defendants are considered innocent until being found guilty in the court of law.