On May 14^th, 2025, at approximately 8:00 p.m. EST, the United States Marshals in Santa Ana, California, apprehended Robert Pottenger without incident. Following a coordinated, multi-agency effort to locate and arrest him, he was transported to the Orange County Central Men’s Jail (CA).

After being indicted by the Clermont County Grand Jury on April 15^th, Pottenger fled from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, prompting an intensive search. The apprehension efforts were led by detectives from the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the U.S. Marshals Service. Additional support was provided by Homeland Security Investigations, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office (KY), the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (OH), and the Miami Valley Smuggling Task Force. 

Pottenger will remain in custody and be extradited to Clermont County, Ohio, where he will be arraigned for his charges at a later date. Once he is booked into the Clermont County Jail, a booking photo will be available upon request.

“We’ll do whatever it takes to protect the children of Clermont County. Thanks to my Detectives, the U.S. Marshals Service, and supporting agencies, this individual will now face justice.” Sheriff Christopher Stratton

ORIGINAL RELEASE:

Kentucky man indicted for crimes against a juvenile.

On April 15^th, 2025, Robert J. Pottenger, age 49, of Kentucky, was indicted by the Clermont County Grand Jury concerning his interaction with a juvenile on the following charges:

(18) counts of Endangering Children, all felonies of the 2^nd degree

(8) counts of Importuning, all felonies of the 5^th degree

(4) counts of Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles, all felonies of the 5^th degree

On Tuesday, December 10^th, 2024, at approximately 12:12 p.m., deputies from the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a residence in the 5600 block of Malsbeary Road in Williamsburg Township of Clermont County regarding disturbing content discovered on two cell phones used by a juvenile. The juvenile’s mother reported finding explicit photos, videos, and sexually suggestive messages allegedly sent by an adult male, later identified as Pottenger.

Detectives from the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Unit immediately began reviewing the case to conduct a more thorough investigation and examine all involved electronic devices. Detectives discovered Pottenger had been engaging in sexually explicit communications with the juvenile victim and was attempting to arrange an in-person meeting through Snapchat.

Detectives executed multiple Search Warrants, allowing for a full forensic analysis of both phones. A complete digital record of the communications, along with account and IP address information tied to Pottenger, was confirmed by detectives.

As a result of the indictment, an arrest warrant has been issued for Robert Pottenger. The case remains under investigation as detectives continue looking for other potential victims. 

Pottenger remains at large, and his whereabouts are unknown. Clermont County Detectives continue to work with the Kentucky State Police, the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office, and the Science Hill Police Department, also in Kentucky, to apprehend Pottenger. Anyone with information on his location is asked to contact the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office at (513) 732-7510.

“This case highlights the importance of online safety, and the proactive steps parents and law enforcement must take to protect their children,” said Sheriff Christopher Stratton. “We remain committed to pursuing those who attempt to exploit minors.”

Any questions related to his pending charges should be directed to the Clermont County Prosecutor’s Office 513-732-7313.

A booking photo will be provided later upon request.