UPDATE: A Provo man, Josue Daniel McBride, 32, has been charged with a staggering 12 felonies after allegedly transmitting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to an undercover officer posing as a man with a teenage nephew. This urgent case has shocked the community and underscores the ongoing battle against child exploitation.
On November 10, 2025, McBride was arrested by the Lehi Police Department and is currently being held without bail in the Utah County Jail. The charges include two counts of enticing a minor, four counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor as a first-degree felony, and five counts of aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor as a second-degree felony. He also faces a charge for distributing pornographic material.
The investigation began on or around November 5, 2025, when an undercover officer created a post on the “utahgayhookup” forum on Reddit. Posing as an adult male with a 13-year-old nephew, the officer utilized emojis indicating sexual attraction to minors, which prompted McBride to initiate contact. This alarming exchange quickly escalated to discussions about sexual acts involving children.
According to court documents, McBride expressed interest in seeing photos of the undercover officer’s nephew and allegedly offered explicit videos of other minors in exchange. He reportedly sent videos depicting a naked child and another child being sexually assaulted, indicating a disturbing willingness to engage in illegal activity.
As the conversation escalated, McBride continued to request nude photos and expressed a desire to meet in person to engage in sexual acts with the minor. The undercover officer, recognizing the gravity of the situation, terminated the conversation and alerted law enforcement.
Detectives monitored McBride’s workplace and arrested him shortly after he left on November 10, 2025. The investigation highlights the critical role of law enforcement in combating child exploitation and the importance of vigilance in online spaces.
Officials remind the public to report any suspicious activity or suspected child exploitation by contacting local law enforcement or the ICAC Tip Line at (801) 281-1211. These allegations carry serious implications for community safety and the protection of vulnerable children.
This developing story is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of child exploitation. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be watching closely, and it is vital for the community to remain informed and proactive.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical case.
