WWU student charged with possession, distribution of child sex abuse material
A Western Washington University student has been charged with two felonies related to the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
The investigation into Jayden Gage Alonso, 19, began in late March after TikTok reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that a user had uploaded two videos depicting child sexual abuse.
A Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office deputy discovered that the user, later identified as Alonso, had posted the videos at IP addresses registered to Nash Hall dormitory at WWU, according to court records.
While reviewing records from TikTok on May 26, detectives found multiple other images and videos of child sexual abuse, as well as messages sent between Alonso and other users referencing sexual attraction to toddlers and other children.
Two previous CyberTips related to child sexual abuse material that was uploaded to Pintrest and Discord dating back to 2022 were also linked to Alonso’s email and phone number.
WSCO served a warrant at Alonso’s dorm room on May 28 with the assistance of university police. A search of his phone revealed one of the videos posted to TikTok and more suspected child sexual abuse material.
A university spokesperson said WWU’s Student Conduct Code may apply to this situation, and “if so would be the process used to address a student’s alleged misconduct.” Per the code, violators can face consequences as severe as expulsion.
It is unclear whether any disciplinary actions have been taken, as student information is confidential.
Alonso was arrested on May 28 and charged with the possession and dealing of depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit behavior. He pleaded not guilty to both charges May 29.
He was released from jail Tuesday after posting $6,000 cash bail.
Report suspected child sexual abuse material at report.cybertip.org.