On Jan. 23, 2018 the Des Moines Police Department received a report from the Seattle Police Department in reference to a victim alleging sex crimes that were determined to have occurred – in part – at the Mt. Rainier Pool in Des Moines.

The crimes were alleged to have occurred between 2002 until the victim turned 18 years of age in 2007.

The suspect under investigation was the victim’s swim coach during that time.

After reviewing the information provided, Des Moines Police Detectives contacted the King County Prosecutor’s Office. The Prosecutor’s Office then notified Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) due to potential crimes occurring outside Washington State.

Detectives from DMPD and HSI immediately opened a joint investigation exploring the allegations and other specifics of the case. Currently, detectives are working to determine what crimes are within the statute of limitations, where else crimes may have occurred, and whether other potential victims or witnesses exist.

Because the alleged abuser has not been charged with a crime, his identity is being withheld pending further investigation. Prior to the report made to Seattle Police Department, the Des Moines Police Department had not at any time been made aware of any illegal activity between the victim and the suspect.

They say they’re also not aware of any other victims at this time.

As the investigation continues, the Des Moines Police Department and HSI special agents are committed to keeping the community safe and informed.

Police are asking that anyone with relevant information, questions or concerns contact HSI Seattle at (206) 442-1469 or email information to [email protected].

UPDATE FEB. 8, 2018: The Orange County Register has identified the suspect as Sean Hutchison (as well as the victim) in this story.

Scott Schaefer

Founder/Publisher/Editor. Three-time National Emmy Award winning Writer (“Bill Nye the Science Guy”), Director, Producer, Journalist and more...