UPDATE: A 32-year-old Provo man has been arrested and faces a staggering 12 felony charges after allegedly attempting to solicit an undercover officer posing as an adult male with a 13-year-old nephew. Josue Daniel McBride was taken into custody by the Lehi Police Department and is currently being held without bail at the Utah County Jail.
The shocking allegations emerged after McBride reportedly engaged in a disturbing online conversation that began on November 5, 2025. An undercover officer created a post on the social media platform Reddit, using emojis recognized by law enforcement as indicators of sexual attraction to children. Shortly after, McBride contacted the officer, furthering the conversation with explicit references to child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Court documents reveal that McBride expressed interest in engaging with the fictitious minor, requesting to see photos of the officer’s nephew while offering to share videos of boys in exchange. The conversations escalated as McBride allegedly sent graphic content involving children aged 10 to 16 years, including videos depicting sexual acts.
McBride’s online behavior raised alarms, prompting the undercover officer to cease communication. However, the investigation continued, leading detectives to apprehend McBride on November 10, 2025, as he exited his workplace.
Authorities emphasize the seriousness of these allegations, which include two counts of enticing a minor and multiple counts of aggravated sexual exploitation, signaling a strong crackdown on child exploitation crimes.
The case underscores the urgent need for vigilance in online safety as communities grapple with the unsettling reality of child exploitation. READERS ARE ENCOURAGED to report any suspected CSAM to law enforcement or the ICAC Tip Line at (801) 281-1211.
As this case unfolds, further updates will be crucial for public awareness and safety measures. Stay tuned for the latest developments.
