Pocatello Man Faces Eight New Felony Counts in Child Sexual Abuse Material Case
New Charges Expand Scope of 2024 Arrest Against Adrian Ray Cantu
POCATELLO, Idaho — A 29-year-old Pocatello man originally charged in late 2024 with possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is now facing eight additional felony counts after prosecutors say forensic investigators uncovered further evidence involving two young girls, ages 7 and 12.
Adrian Ray Cantu, who was first charged in December 2024 with one felony count of CSAM possession, now faces eight felony counts of sexual exploitation of a child through production. The new charges stem from photographs allegedly found in his possession. Charging documents describe some images showing an adult’s hand exposing one of the girls, and other images in which Cantu’s genitalia is visible, according to prosecutors.
If convicted on all eight new counts, Cantu faces a maximum sentence of 240 years in prison. A preliminary hearing on the new charges is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on May 5 before Magistrate Judge Carol Jarman in Bannock County. His previously scheduled jury trial on the original CSAM possession charge remains set for 9 a.m. on June 14 before District Judge Robert Naftz.
Cantu has been charged with these crimes but has not been convicted. Everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Forensic Interviews, New Disclosures Led to Expanded Investigation
According to charging documents, forensic interviews were conducted with both victims on January 7, 2025. During the interview with the 7-year-old, the child was unable to recall the events in question. The 12-year-old, during her initial interview, discussed news coverage of Cantu’s arrest and, when asked directly whether Cantu had ever inappropriately touched her, said no. She did tell the interviewer, however, that Cantu would rub her stomach while she watched TikTok on his phone.
The investigation expanded on February 11, 2025, when the mother of both victims contacted detectives to report that the older girl had disclosed to her that Cantu had inappropriately touched her. A follow-up forensic interview was conducted in which the 12-year-old described five separate instances of Cantu touching her over her clothing, telling the interviewer the contact made her uncomfortable.
Charging documents also state that when family members confronted Cantu about the images, he became upset and expressed suicidal thoughts. He was subsequently admitted to the Behavioral Health Center in Idaho Falls. Investigators had indicated at the time of the original December 2024 charge that additional charges were likely as the investigation continued.
This case reflects a broader pattern of child exploitation prosecutions in southeast Idaho in recent years. A Pocatello man was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for child pornography in a separate case, underscoring the frequency with which local and federal authorities have pursued such charges in Bannock County. Law enforcement agencies have consistently stated that CSAM investigations are a top priority, and that arrests frequently lead to expanded charges as digital forensic examinations are completed.
Authorities continue to encourage anyone with information related to child exploitation cases to contact local law enforcement. The Bannock County Sheriff’s Office and Pocatello Police Department both maintain tip lines for reporting suspected child abuse.
For those struggling with thoughts of suicide, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. Local resources in the Pocatello area include the South East Idaho Behavioral Crisis Center at (208) 909-5177 and Portneuf Behavioral Health Services at (208) 239-2571.
What Comes Next
Cantu’s preliminary hearing on the eight new felony charges is set for May 5 before Magistrate Judge Carol Jarman. His trial on the original CSAM possession charge is scheduled for June 14 before District Judge Robert Naftz. Bannock County News will continue to follow this case as it moves through the courts. For additional coverage of public safety news across southeast Idaho, visit Idaho News.