Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — According to Jackson County Sheriff Gary Schuette, 42-year-old Jackson resident Richard Ess was arrested by Detectives of the Jackson Sheriff’s Office in the 400 Block of Union Street in the City of Jackson on Wednesday, April 23. The following day, the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office charged Ess with seven felonies related to sex crimes against children.

The charges consisted of two counts of Aggravated Child Sexually Abusive Activity, one count of Possessing Child Sexually Abusive Material, three counts of Using a Computer to Commit a Crime, and one count of Resisting and Obstructing Arrest.

Ess was arraigned on the charges with his bond set at $100,000.

The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by Detectives of the Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say there are five victims, all under the age of 18, spanning over four states.

Detectives request the public view the photograph of the suspect and report any additional information about these crimes, or other suspected crimes involving Ess, to Detective Breanne Tucker at (517) 768-7988. JSO Detectives were assisted by members of the Jackson Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Michigan State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.