Salina Man Arrested After Child Exploitation Material Allegedly Found on Shared Laptop

Salina Police arrested a 41-year-old man after child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was reportedly discovered on a shared household laptop in the 500 block of South 5th Street. A family member located the illicit images while using the device and immediately notified authorities.

Officers responded, reviewed the material, and identified the suspect as Cody Pacheco, who admitted to possessing the content. Multiple electronic devices, including the laptop, were seized as evidence. Investigators noted the material was obtained online and not produced within the home.

Pacheco was booked on charges of sexual exploitation of a child, possession of media involving a minor under 18, and unlawful possession of visual depictions of a child. The investigation remains ongoing, and all seized devices will undergo forensic examination. Specialists will compare the recovered files against a national database of known victims to determine whether additional offenses or unidentified victims exist.

Authorities explained that each illegal image may represent a separate count, and further charges could be added depending on the forensic findings. The case will continue with assistance from regional and federal partners who support digital investigations involving CSAM.