Watertown Man Arrested for Possession of Child Pornography

(Pierre) – For the second time this week, the Division of Criminal Investigation has made an arrest relating to child pornography.

Attorney General Mark Barnett announced that John Mathew Peterson, 31, of Watertown, was arrested today on 25 counts of possession of child pornography. 

“We’re taking action against people possessing child pornography. This is a class six felony in South Dakota and you can bet it comes with serious repercussions,” said Barnett.

DCI agents discovered over 100 images of child pornography on Peterson’s computer. The Governor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit assisted with the initial investigation and will remain active on the case.

The Watertown Police Department and Department of Social Services will also assist DCI in the ongoing investigation. Prosecution will be handled by the Attorney General’s office and the Codington County States Attorney.

If found guilty, Peterson could receive two years in prison, per count. 

-30-