Boulder Naval Base: Child Exploitation Arrest
- A 20-year-old man from Boulder, CO, Justin Lawrence Ely, faces multiple charges of child exploitation after his arrest last month at a Naval base in Connecticut.
- Ely's arrest for child sexual abuse material (CSAM) possession and distribution stems from an investigation initiated by the colorado Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.
- Authorities learned Ely had left Boulder County for training at the Connecticut base.
A Boulder man,Justin Lawrence Ely,was arrested at a Naval base in Connecticut,facing charges related to child exploitation. The investigation, triggered by a tip to the ICAC Task Force, led to the finding of child sexual abuse material on his device. Authorities have charged Ely with multiple counts of CSAM possession and distribution, highlighting the role of technology in facilitating child exploitation. This case underscores the urgent need for robust internet safety protocols. News Directory 3 is committed to delivering the crucial details of this developing story. Ely is scheduled to appear in court later this month, with the investigation ongoing. Discover what’s next …
Boulder Man Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges at Naval Base
Updated June 14, 2025
A 20-year-old man from Boulder, CO, Justin Lawrence Ely, faces multiple charges of child exploitation after his arrest last month at a Naval base in Connecticut. The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest, which took place may 31 at the Groton, CT, Naval base where Ely was stationed.
Ely’s arrest for child sexual abuse material (CSAM) possession and distribution stems from an investigation initiated by the colorado Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. The task force received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, leading them to identify Ely as a suspect.
Authorities learned Ely had left Boulder County for training at the Connecticut base. The U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) and Homeland Security investigators contacted Ely and seized his cell phone under a search warrant. Examination of the device revealed evidence of both possession and distribution of CSAM, officials said.
After his initial arrest in Connecticut, Ely was released. He later turned himself in to Boulder authorities and was booked on five counts of CSAM distribution and five counts of possession. He was subsequently released from the Boulder county Jail on a $15,000 bond. The role of technology in facilitating child exploitation and the need for robust internet safety measures are highlighted by this case.
What’s next
Ely is scheduled to appear in court later this month. The investigation is ongoing, and further charges could be filed as authorities continue to analyze evidence.