FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 23, 2026

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — After a months-long investigation into an internet protocol (IP) address, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) arrested a Stockton man suspected of possessing more than 65,000 images of child sexual abuse material.

As California’s state police, the CHP uses specialized investigative resources to identify and hold accountable individuals suspected of exploiting children online.

On Sept. 22, CHP Computer Crimes Investigation Unit investigators, assisted by the CHP Special Weapons and Tactics team, served a search warrant at the Stockton residence of Nickolas Turpen-Arends, 40. A preliminary forensic examination of a desktop computer in the home revealed child sexual abuse material. Investigators then arrested Turpen-Arends, who was booked into the San Joaquin County Jail on suspicion of violating Penal Code section 311.11(a), possession of child sexual abuse material.

Turpen-Arends serves as a culinary arts teacher at Lincoln High School. School administrators are aware of the arrest and are cooperating with the investigation.

“Our computer crimes investigators are essential to protecting innocent victims and ensuring offenders are held accountable,” said CHP Capt. Melissa Kittell. “I am proud of the tireless effort and dedication invested in this investigation, which ultimately resulted in the suspect’s identification and arrest.”

Investigators are conducting a comprehensive forensic examination of the computer. Anyone with additional information about this investigation is encouraged to submit a tip at 1-800-TELL-CHP.

Photos courtesy of the CHP

The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of

Safety, Service, and Security.

Jaime Coffee

Director of Communications

Office of Media Relations

(916) 843-3310