A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Washington has indicted Jonathan Michael Atkinson, 34, on 11 criminal counts involving severe offenses such as sex trafficking of children, production and attempted production of child pornography, online enticement of a minor, and forced labor. The charges could result in a lifetime prison sentence.
Atkinson was taken into custody on April 8, 2025, by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This task force includes members from Homeland Security Investigations, the Richland Police Department, the Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Support was also provided by the Pasco Police Department, ATF, and DEA. Atkinson's arraignment in federal court is scheduled for April 10, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker affirmed the U.S. Attorney’s office's dedication to combat human trafficking. “The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking,” Barker stated. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice for the most vulnerable among us.”
Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing these crimes. “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities, and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships,” Murphy stated. “HSI is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims, bring traffickers to justice, and put an end to this exploitation.”
Members of the public who have any information concerning this case are encouraged to contact the Pasco Police Department.
The case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter, following an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
An indictment is an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
