A Rapid City man is in custody following a multi-agency investigation into allegations involving underage individuals.
Authorities say 44-year-old Jesse Victor Joseph was arrested on June 18 after search warrants were carried out the day before by the Rapid City Police Department and the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office.
Joseph is currently being held in the Pennington County Jail. He faces charges including solicitation of a minor, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and providing alcohol to someone under the age of 18.
Investigators allege that over an extended period of time, Joseph communicated with and associated with several juveniles. Law enforcement says he is accused of offering alcohol, vaping products, money, and other items in an effort to coerce minors into inappropriate activities.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing, and there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact authorities.
Several agencies are assisting with the case, including the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Authorities emphasize that the charges are allegations, and Joseph is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
