BRISTOL, VIRGINIA / HORN LAKE, MISSISSIPPI: A 29-year-old Virginia man has been arrested on multiple child exploitation charges after a Mississippi mother alerted police about suspicious online communications involving her 15-year-old daughter.
The investigation, which involved detectives from the Horn Lake Police Department in Mississippi and the Bristol Virginia Police Department, led to the execution of a search warrant at the suspect’s home and the seizure of electronic devices believed to contain evidence.
Who Is the Suspect?
Police identified the suspect as William Tollie, a 29-year-old resident of Bristol, Virginia.
Authorities have not released additional details about his occupation or personal background. Investigators have also not indicated whether he has any previous criminal convictions related to child exploitation.
How Did the Investigation Begin?
According to police, the investigation began on June 15 after a Horn Lake, Mississippi, mother contacted authorities with concerns about her 15-year-old daughter.
Detectives launched an inquiry after learning the teenager had allegedly been communicating online with an adult male from Virginia.
Because the suspect lived in another state, Horn Lake investigators coordinated with detectives from the Bristol Virginia Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division to continue the investigation.
What Happened?
Investigators determined that the teenage girl had allegedly been communicating with William Tollie through Discord, a popular online messaging and voice communication platform.
Based on evidence gathered during the investigation, Bristol detectives obtained a search warrant for Tollie’s residence.
During the search, investigators seized electronic recording and storage devices believed to have been used by the suspect. Authorities are conducting forensic examinations of the devices as part of the ongoing investigation.
What Charges Does William Tollie Face?
William Tollie has been charged with multiple felony offences, including:
- Felony possession of child pornography
- solicitation of a child aged 15 but younger than 18
- Felony use of a computer to commit certain sex offences
Police said the charges stem from evidence uncovered during the joint investigation.
What Police Are Saying
The Horn Lake Police Department praised the collaboration between investigators in Mississippi and Virginia, saying the case demonstrates that geographical distance is no barrier when protecting children.
In a statement shared on social media, the department said:
“Another child predator charged after Horn Lake Police Department investigators collaborated with Bristol (VA) Police Department investigators. No distance is too far to protect our most vulnerable.”
The Bristol Virginia Police Department confirmed detectives acted quickly after receiving information from Horn Lake authorities and obtained a search warrant based on evidence developed during the investigation.
Was the Child Safe?
Police have not reported any physical injuries involving the 15-year-old girl.
Authorities have withheld her identity because she is a minor and continue to provide appropriate victim support throughout the investigation.
