|
Police Chief Monica Prieto
|
|
Date: 3/26/2026
TDD: (520) 791-2639 |
|
HUMAN EXPLOITATION AND TRAFFICKING UNIT
MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER ARREST
|
|
|
The Tucson Police Department’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit (TPD/HEaT) has arrested a local teacher and high school coach following a recent investigation.
In December 2025, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) received a report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding an individual who had uploaded suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM). During their investigation, LVMPD detectives determined the suspect was located in the Tucson area and transferred the case to the Tucson Police Department’s HEaT Unit. TPD detectives worked in coordination with the TPD Forensic Electronic Media Unit (FEMU) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to identify and locate the suspect. Through the investigation, detectives identified the suspect as 48-year-old Timothy James Sonier. Investigators also learned Sonier is a teacher at Dodge Traditional Magnet School within the Tucson Unified School District and serves as an athletic coach at Salpointe Catholic High School. Both institutions were notified of the investigation.
On March 26, 2026, with assistance from HSI and TPD/FEMU, TPD/HEaT investigators obtained and served search warrants at Sonier’s residence on Tucson’s east side and at Dodge Traditional Magnet School, where he was initially contacted by detectives. Investigators located several electronic devices during the searches. A forensic review of those devices established probable cause to charge Sonier with ten counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. He was ultimately booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Complex on those charges.
At this time, investigators have not identified any known local victims associated with this case. While many ICAC investigations involve victims who are located outside of the United States, this case involves a suspect in a position of trust within the local community who worked directly with children in both educational and coaching roles. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is urged to call 88-CRIME. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
###
|
|
|
|
