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The Tucson Police Department Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit has arrested a suspect in connection with the sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl.
In 2004, the Department of Child Safety reported John “Lincoln” Sperry had sexually assaulted his 14-year-old foster daughter. The Tucson Police Department began an investigation and conducted interviews, served search warrants, and collected evidence. The case was ultimately closed.
In 2026, the victim, now in her 30s, recontacted the Tucson Police Department. Detectives from the Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit reopened the investigation, reviewed forensic evidence, and conducted follow-up interviews before submitting their findings to the Pima County Attorney's Office. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued, charging John “Lincoln” Sperry with two counts of sexual conduct with a minor. Detectives determined that Mr. Sperry was now living in Prescott, Arizona, where he was working as a licensed clinical social worker specializing in sex addiction treatment. TPD coordinated with the Prescott Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service to locate and arrest the 65-year-old on July 8, 2026. TPD detectives traveled to Prescott following the arrest, where they contacted “Lincoln” Sperry. He was booked into the Yavapai County Detention Center and is awaiting extradition to Pima County.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to call 911, 88-CRIME, or the Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit at 520-589-8940.
The Tucson Police Department recognizes that reporting sexual assaults can be difficult, and some individuals may choose to come forward years after an offense occurs. Anyone who wishes to report sexual assault is encouraged to contact the Tucson Police Department at 520-837-7485.
The Tucson Police Department also thanks the Pima County Attorney's Office, Prescott Police Department, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance.
John Lincoln Sperry
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