A Jackson man is now facing charges at both the state and federal level after investigators say he exploited minors across multiple states.
42-year-old John Richard Ess was first arrested on April 23, 2025, by detectives from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The arrest happened in the 400 block of Union Street in the City of Jackson with the help of the Jackson Narcotics Enforcement Team and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
On April 24, 2025, the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office charged Ess with seven felony counts. Those charges included two counts of Child Sexually Abusive Activity-Aggravated, one count of Child Sexually Abusive Material-Possession, three counts of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, and one count of Resisting and Obstructing Arrest. His bond was set at $100,000 and he remained in the custody of the Sheriff. At that time, detectives identified at least five victims under the age of 18 in four different states. Sheriff Gary Schuette asked the public to review Ess’s photo and report any additional information or suspected crimes connected to him.
The investigation continued, and federal authorities later filed their own complaint. In September 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan charged Ess with Sexual Exploitation of Children and Possession of Child Pornography. Federal prosecutors allege Ess instructed minors to harm themselves or draw symbols on their bodies, then send him pornographic photos and videos.
The federal charges carry severe penalties. Sexual exploitation of children can result in a 15 to 30 year prison sentence per count, while possession of child pornography can carry up to 20 years. Combined with the state charges still pending in Jackson County, Ess faces the possibility of decades behind bars if convicted.
Law enforcement has confirmed the scope of the case spans multiple states, with investigators actively working to identify additional victims. Officials have urged anyone with information about Ess or potential victims to contact Detective Breanne Tucker at 517-768-7988.
This case shows how quickly state and federal authorities can converge when child exploitation crosses state lines. State prosecutors acted first with local charges, and federal prosecutors followed once the multi-state element became clear.
Ess remains in custody while both cases move forward.
