A Minnesota State Trooper is charged in federal court with producing child pornography announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. The United States Attorney's Office says Jeremy Plonski has been arrested on a federal warrant and is in custody. He's also currently on leave with the State Patrol.
The lead investigator with the FBI calls the conduct alleged in this case 'horrifying and a gross betrayal of public trust.'
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office has zero tolerance for public officials who violate federal laws—particularly those laws that protect vulnerable children from sexual abuse,” said Kirkpatrick. “Plonski took an oath to protect and serve our community. While donning his uniform, Plonski committed one of the most vile and predatory offenses imaginable. This is abhorrent—to Minnesota as a whole and to our law enforcement community in particular. I am proud of the swift and decisive action of law enforcement, who responded immediately and worked cooperatively to take Plonski into custody.”
Plonski is being held in the Sherburne County Jail. Details of the investigation have not been released. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison if convicted.
"The conduct alleged in this case is horrifying and a gross betrayal of public trust,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Law enforcement officers are sworn to protect the most vulnerable among us — not exploit them. When someone in a position of authority commits such an egregious and despicable crime, the damage extends beyond the victim — it shakes the very foundation of our communities’ trust. The FBI and our partners will not hesitate to investigate and bring to justice anyone who preys on children, no matter their badge or title.”
"The allegations in this case are appalling and indefensible," says Minnesota State Patrol Colonel Christina Bogojevic. "The conduct described is a serious violation of the law, of human decency and of the oath every member of the State Patrol swears to uphold. These allegations represent a betrayal of the community, victims, and of every member of law enforcement who wears their uniform with integrity and honor."
"We will fully support the federal investigation and prosecution, and will cooperate to the fullest extent possible," Bogojevic continues. "No badge, no title and no position will ever place anyone above the law. Protecting the vulnerable is our duty. Anyone who violates that duty has no place in this organization or in our profession. An internal affairs investigation is underway, and Plonski is on leave. He has been employed since 2022."