Salt Lake Man Charged After Buying Sex Toy for 12-Year-Old

Christopher Kennedy faces felony count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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A 45-year-old Salt Lake City man named Christopher Kennedy has been arrested and charged with one count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony, after admitting to police that he purchased an adult sex toy for a 12-year-old girl he said he had a crush on.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious nature of sexual crimes against minors and the aggressive prosecution of such offenses under Utah's laws, which carry lengthy prison sentences when aggravating factors are present.

The details

According to court documents, police were contacted on February 20 and Kennedy admitted during an interview that he bought the adult toy for the 12-year-old alleged victim. Aggravated sexual abuse of a child is among Utah's most serious sex offense charges, with the statute listing various aggravating circumstances that can elevate a sexual abuse case.

  • On February 20, police were contacted about the incident.
  • Kennedy was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail.

The players

Christopher Kennedy

A 45-year-old Salt Lake City resident who was arrested and charged with one count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, a first-degree felony, for allegedly buying an adult sex toy for a 12-year-old girl.

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What’s next

Kennedy is currently being held on $20,000 bail while prosecutors review the case. No court date has been set at this time.

The takeaway

This disturbing case underscores the need for vigilance and swift action to protect children from sexual predators, as well as the consequences offenders can face under Utah's strict laws regarding crimes against minors.