Chicago Man Arrested on Child Pornography Charges

Levi Pitchford, 25, accused of sharing child sexual abuse material on social media

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 25-year-old Chicago man named Levi Pitchford has been charged with dissemination and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) following a months-long investigation by the Cook County Sheriff's Police. Investigators traced CSAM uploads and shares to a social media account belonging to Pitchford, and after obtaining a search warrant, found approximately 20 files containing CSAM on his cell phone.

Why it matters

The case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and apprehend individuals involved in the distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material, which is a serious crime with severe consequences. The investigation also demonstrates the importance of tips from the public and organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in helping authorities uncover these types of crimes.

The details

Cook County Sheriff's Police launched an investigation in December after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about a social media user uploading and sending potential CSAM using their account. Investigators learned that the social media account belonged to Levi Pitchford and confirmed that CSAM was shared via that account. On February 3, investigators met with Pitchford in Blue Island, where he was staying, and after being read his Miranda rights, he allegedly admitted to having CSAM on his cell phone. A forensic analysis of the phone found approximately 20 files containing CSAM.

  • The investigation began in December 2025 after a tip was received.
  • On February 3, 2026, investigators met with Pitchford in Blue Island.
  • On February 23, 2026, the Cook County State's Attorney's Office approved charges against Pitchford.

The players

Levi Pitchford

A 25-year-old Chicago man who has been charged with dissemination and possession of child sexual abuse material.

Cook County Sheriff's Police

The law enforcement agency that launched the investigation and made the arrest.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

The organization that provided the initial tip to the Cook County Sheriff's Police about a social media user uploading and sharing potential child sexual abuse material.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to be vigilant in identifying and apprehending those who seek to exploit and abuse children.”

— Sheriff Tom Dart, Cook County Sheriff

What’s next

Pitchford was ordered detained at Cook County Jail following his initial court appearance on February 24, 2026. The judge will determine whether he will be granted bail at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of public-private partnerships and community vigilance in combating the distribution of child sexual abuse material online. It also highlights the need for continued law enforcement efforts to identify and prosecute those engaged in these heinous crimes against children.