Two Men Charged in Steuben County Child Exploitation Probe

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

State police have charged two men, William M. Kibler, 20, of Corning, and Jacob A. Hanes, 24, of Palm Desert, California, with felony and misdemeanor offenses after investigators uncovered sexually explicit online communications between the men and a 15-year-old girl in Steuben County, New York. The investigation began in late 2025 after the victim's parents discovered the inappropriate communications on social media platforms.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing threat of child exploitation and the need for vigilance by parents and law enforcement to protect minors from predatory behavior online. The charges also raise concerns about the prevalence of such crimes and the challenges in policing digital platforms where these interactions can occur.

The details

Authorities say Kibler and Hanes engaged in sexually explicit communications with the teen through social media, including Snapchat and Instagram. Forensic analysis of electronic devices confirmed the exchange of sexually explicit images and videos. Kibler was arrested in February 2026 after voluntarily going to the state police barracks, while Hanes was located and arrested in Niagara County in December 2025.

• The investigation began in late November 2025 after the victim's parents discovered the inappropriate online communications.
• Hanes was arrested on December 30, 2025 in Niagara County.
• Kibler was arrested on February 12, 2026 after voluntarily going to the state police barracks.

What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities say additional charges may be filed as the case progresses through the criminal justice system.