Petaluma Man Arrested For Photos, Video Of Minors Engaging In Sex: PD

PETALUMA, CA — A Petaluma man was arrested this week in Petaluma on suspicion of possession of illegal, obscene matter, the Petaluma Police Department said.

Nicholas Petersen, 31, was driving into a shopping center on Wilson Street shortly before 9 a.m. Tuesday when detectives and officers from the Community Impact Response Team arrested him on an outstanding warrant related to their investigation.

Detectives had received a tip related to illegal, obscene digital images/data, etc., and developed probable cause that showed Petersen had illegal and obscene material in his possession, police said.

With Petersen detained, detectives served a search warrant at his Wilson Street residence, then formally arrested him under the warrant charge of possessing images/data, etc., of people younger than 18 engaging in or simulating sexual conduct. Petersen was booked into Sonoma County jail.

A search of jail records on Thursday indicated Petersen was no longer in custody.

The investigation into Petersen's activities was continuing this week. Police urged anyone with information pertinent to the case to contact Detective Vedder at the Petaluma Police Department at 707-781-1241 or send a tip via email to ppdtips@cityofpetaluma.org.