Pueblo County, Colorado – A former Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested after an investigation into alleged sexual assault and child exploitation involving minors.
According to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office, the agency received a report in late December 2025 alleging a sheriff’s deputy sexually assaulted a child. The sheriff’s office immediately launched both an internal administrative investigation and a criminal investigation, assigning detectives and placing the deputy on administrative leave.
Investigators reported identifying two child victims, with the most recent alleged incident occurring in 2020. As the investigation continued, detectives allegedly determined the deputy possessed child sexual abuse material. Multiple electronic devices were seized and examined, leading to the discovery of what authorities described as a substantial and extensive volume of illegal material.
Detectives conducted several interviews and executed multiple search warrants during the investigation. Based on the findings, Andrew Ward, a detention deputy assigned to Transportation, was terminated from employment with the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office on January 14, 2026.
An arrest warrant was issued the same day, and Ward was taken into custody. He is currently being held without bond at the Pueblo County Jail.
Ward was employed with the sheriff’s office from June 2, 2014, until his termination.
Authorities said Ward was arrested on the following charges:
• Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust, two counts, Class 3 felony
• Sexual Exploitation of a Child, eight counts, Class 4 felony
• Sexual Exploitation of a Child, five counts, Class 5 felony
Sheriff David J. Lucero stated the allegations are deeply troubling and emphasized that protecting victims and maintaining accountability remain top priorities for the agency. Officials noted the investigation was pursued promptly and thoroughly while safeguarding the integrity of the case and the privacy of those involved.
Due to the ongoing criminal case, no additional information is being released at this time.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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