News. Law & Legislation. Local Updates.
Stay informed with Colorado Faith Alliance’s roundup on child trafficking and exploitation in Colorado — news, arrests, and information on how you can make a difference.
#ProtectCOKids #CFAUpdates
Legislative Update
Colorado Legislators Eye Ramping Up Penalties for Child Trafficking
Colorado lawmakers are considering bipartisan legislation that would significantly increase penalties for individuals who buy children for commercial sexual exploitation.
Local Arrests
Deputies arrest ex-Arvada teacher accused of creating explicit content of minors.
An Arvada High School English teacher was as arrested and booked on several charges, including 40 counts of sexual exploitation of a child — creating, distributing, and possessing. He was immediately placed on leave and later terminated, the sheriff’s office said
Highlands Ranch Resident Arrested for Aggravated Incest, Sexual Assault on a Child by a Position of Trust, and Sexual Exploitation of a Child.
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office arrested John Michael Beccia Jr. 35, of Highlands Ranch, following a tip indicating he was in possession of child pornography. During the course of the investigation, deputies and detectives uncovered additional evidence leading to further criminal charges
Colorado man sentenced for sexual exploitation of 84 teen victims ages 13-17 across U.S.
Austin Ryan Lauless, 31, of Colorado, has been sentenced to 84 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release.
Former Soldier Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material
Matthew Valkinburg, 35, of Pueblo, Colorado, has been sentenced to more than seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. Valkinburg was a solider at Fort Jackson at the time of the crime.
Greeley man arrest linked to Aurora child exploitation investigation
Aurora police say a Greeley man was arrested Wednesday in connection with child exploitation charges following an online predator operation that began more than eight months ago.
Why it matters:
Arrests like these show the importance of prevention education — predators often reach kids through gaming apps, chat rooms, and social media.
What Parents Need to Know
When it comes to keeping kids safe in an increasingly digital world, awareness and communication are just as important as technology. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Protecting Your Kids Online 2.0 guide offers practical, parent-friendly advice for recognizing risks, setting clear expectations, and fostering ongoing conversations about online behavior.
Why it matters:
When parents feel informed and confident, children are better equipped to navigate the digital safety world.
Community News
How Churches, Schools, and Youth Organizations Can Support Prevention Efforts
Colorado Faith Alliance offers practical ways organizations can strengthen awareness, support early intervention, and help create safer environments for the children and families they serve.
Why it matters:
Churches, schools, and youth organizations are often where warning signs first appear — and where meaningful prevention can begin.
Protect Your Community: Book a Free CFA Awareness Presentation
Empower your family, school, church, or organization with the knowledge and tools to recognize and prevent online child exploitation.
Colorado Faith Alliance offers free, in-person or virtual awareness presentations designed to:
Educate on digital dangers and red flags
Equip parents, leaders, and teens with prevention strategies
Mobilize your community to protect Colorado’s most vulnerable children
👉 Book a presentation today and help stop child exploitation before it starts.
Book a PresentationRelated CFA Resources
Schools & Community Guide – Education and awareness resources for educators and community leaders
Don’t Take the Bait – School-based online safety awareness program
Adult Awareness & Education – Prevention-focused education for educators, parents, and community organizations