Oceano Cub Scouts Leader Charged with Child Pornography

Michael Schmidt, an IT worker at the county health department, was arrested for possession of child sexual abuse material.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

San Luis Obispo County sheriff's deputies arrested 46-year-old Michael Schmidt, a Cub Scouts leader from Oceano, on Thursday for possession of child pornography. The investigation began on February 17 after deputies received a report of suspected child sexual abuse material. Detectives identified Schmidt, who works in the IT department of the San Luis Obispo County Health Department, as the suspect and executed a search warrant at his Oceano residence, leading to his arrest. Investigators are asking anyone with additional information to come forward.

Why it matters

The arrest of a Cub Scouts leader on child pornography charges raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the community. As a trusted youth organization leader, Schmidt's alleged actions have violated the trust placed in him and could have long-lasting impacts on the children and families involved.

The details

On February 17, deputies received a report of suspected child sexual abuse material. During the investigation, detectives identified the suspect as 46-year-old Michael Schmidt, an employee of the San Luis Obispo County Health Department's IT department. On Thursday morning, detectives from the SLO County Sheriff's Office, along with the Fresno County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, executed a search warrant at Schmidt's residence in Oceano and arrested him for possession of child sexual abuse material. Investigators also discovered that Schmidt was a local Cub Scouts leader in the Five Cities area.

  • On February 17, deputies received a report of suspected child sexual abuse material.
  • On Thursday morning, detectives executed a search warrant and arrested Schmidt.

The players

Michael Schmidt

A 46-year-old Cub Scouts leader from Oceano who was arrested for possession of child pornography. He is an employee of the San Luis Obispo County Health Department's IT department.

San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that received the initial report, conducted the investigation, and arrested Schmidt.

Fresno County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

The task force that assisted the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office in executing the search warrant and arresting Schmidt.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Michael Schmidt at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thorough background checks and ongoing monitoring of individuals in positions of trust over children. It also underscores the need for robust reporting and investigation protocols to swiftly address any allegations of child exploitation.