Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Arrest Sparks man for sexual assault of child

On August 17, 2022, the Northern Nevada Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force arrested 31-year-old James Furman of Sparks, Nevada on multiple felony counts.  This arrest is the result of an investigation into Possession of Child Pornography which led Detectives to identify one count of Sexual Assault on a child younger than 14.

In July of 2022, ICAC Detectives received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding the distribution of Child Sexual Assault Material (CSAM).  During the investigation, Detectives were granted a search warrant for a residence located in the 5200 block of Vidette Meadows Drive in Sparks.  Pursuant to the warrant, Detectives seized and searched electronic devices for CSAM.

During the forensic examination, evidence of a child victim known to James Furman was identified. The child victim was located shortly after being identified and ICAC Detectives arrested Furman.  The child and the child’s family are being provided with services through the Child Advocacy Center.  

In total, Furman faces seven felony counts:

• Sexual Assault Against a Child Under 14
• Lewdness with a Child Under 14, first offense
• Lewdness with a Child Under 14, first offense
• Use Minor Under 14 to Produce Child Pornography
• Use Minor Under 14 to Produce Child Pornography
• Possession of Child Pornography
• Distribute Child Pornography

The Regional Sex Offender Notification Unit, Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit, and Washoe County K9 Deputies assisted with the apprehension of James Furman. 

The Northern Nevada ICAC is a regional partnership consisting of Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Sparks Police Department, Reno Police Department, Nevada Attorney General’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations.  

This investigation is ongoing.  Anyone who may have information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 and refer to case number WC22-3930. 

James Furman (2/27/1991 DOB)

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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