Michael Thompson, a resident of Minneapolis, Minnesota, faces charges related to the production and attempted production of child pornography. Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick announced the charge.
Court documents reveal that on December 29, 2024, Thompson traveled from Minnesota to Iowa to meet a teenage minor he had encountered online. During his visit, he engaged in sexual activities with the minor. The communication continued into January 30, 2025, when Thompson allegedly persuaded the minor to send sexually explicit images.
Thompson was charged via criminal complaint in U.S. District Court and appeared for a detention hearing on May 2, 2025, before Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright. He was ordered to remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.
“We are experiencing an epidemic of online-facilitated sex abuse in Minnesota,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “My office will continue to aggressively prosecute predators who use the internet to prey on our vulnerable children.”
Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr., of FBI Minneapolis, emphasized the severity of such crimes: "Crimes against children violations are among the most reprehensible crimes we investigate.” He affirmed the FBI's dedication to ensuring offenders are brought to justice and highlighted ongoing collaboration with partners to protect communities.
The case is being investigated by both the FBI and the Ankeny Police Department.
Individuals who suspect they or their child may be victims of Michael Thompson are urged to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth S. Shnider is handling prosecution duties for this case.
It is important to note that a complaint is merely an allegation; thus, Thompson remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
