Daijiworld Media Network – Phoenix

Phoenix, Jul 28: An Indian-origin man, Jaydeep Patel (31), has been arrested in Phoenix, Arizona, on charges of sexually exploiting minors. Patel, a former behavioural health technician at Phoenix Children's Hospital, was taken into custody on July 17 after police discovered over 1,200 images and videos of child sexual abuse material on his electronic devices.

According to reports, Patel has been charged with nine counts of sexual exploitation of a minor—each a class two felony punishable by three to twelve and a half years in prison for first-time offenders.

The investigation began in 2024 when police received online tips from an Internet Service Provider regarding a social media profile involved in sharing such illegal content. The accused's mobile-linked social media accounts were traced and searched, leading to the discovery of graphic messages and multiple explicit videos.

Some of the recovered files reportedly featured grade-school-aged girls in sexual acts, with Patel’s home and body allegedly visible in some clips. Court documents stated that the accused had also openly solicited such content for personal gratification.

Phoenix Children’s Hospital released a statement on July 21 clarifying that Patel had cleared all standard background checks at the time of hiring. “This individual is no longer employed with us. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement,” the hospital said.

The court has set a cash-only bond of USD 100,000. If released, Patel will be under strict conditions including electronic monitoring, curfew, and a complete ban on contact with minors. His next hearing is scheduled for July 28.