Shingletown Man Daniel Ray Michael Arrested for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material Following ICAC Investigation
SHINGLETOWN, CA — July 3, 2025 — The quiet community of Shingletown has been shaken by disturbing revelations following the arrest of 52-year-old Daniel Ray Michael, who now faces serious criminal charges for the possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The arrest was confirmed by the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) after a multi-agency investigation initiated by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating the exploitation of minors in digital spaces.
According to SCSO, the investigation into Michael’s alleged crimes began with a case referral from ICAC, which had uncovered evidence suggesting the transmission and storage of illegal and graphic materials involving minors. The case swiftly gained urgency as forensic investigators traced the activity back to Michael’s residence in Shingletown, a small, rural town located in northern California.
🚔 Search and Arrest
On Wednesday, July 2, deputies from the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office—accompanied by digital forensic experts and ICAC investigators—executed a search warrant at Michael’s home. During the execution of the warrant, law enforcement officials reportedly seized multiple electronic devices, including computers, hard drives, and mobile phones, all of which are now undergoing detailed forensic analysis.
Preliminary findings from the seized materials led to Michael’s immediate arrest on-site without incident. Authorities confirmed that several of the files found on his devices met the legal criteria for CSAM under California law, including images and videos depicting the exploitation of minors.
Michael was booked into the Shasta County Jail late Wednesday evening and is being held on multiple felony charges related to the possession and possible distribution of CSAM. His bail has been set at $250,000, and his first court appearance is scheduled for Monday, July 7 in Shasta County Superior Court.
🧑⚖️ Ongoing Investigation
The SCSO emphasized that this remains an active and ongoing investigation, with the potential for additional charges depending on the results of forensic examinations and further collaboration with federal agencies.
“This arrest represents a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of our society—our children,” said Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Lt. Maria Gutierrez. “We are grateful for the coordination between our department, the ICAC Task Force, and digital forensics specialists who work tirelessly to uncover these hidden crimes.”
Authorities are also exploring whether Michael had direct contact with any minors, either online or in-person, and are urging anyone with information related to this case to come forward. As of this report, no evidence has been made public indicating the involvement of additional individuals or victims, but law enforcement officials are not ruling out that possibility.
🧠 Community Reaction
News of Michael’s arrest has deeply unsettled residents in Shingletown, a quiet community of fewer than 3,000 people. Many expressed shock that such allegations could emerge so close to home.
“We’re a small town. Everyone knows everyone, so something like this hits hard,” said one local resident, who asked not to be named. “We’re heartbroken that anyone in our community could be connected to something so horrific.”
Parents, in particular, are grappling with concern and outrage, with some calling for increased digital education and local law enforcement transparency regarding future threats.
🌐 The Role of ICAC
The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force operates nationwide and is responsible for identifying, investigating, and assisting in the prosecution of individuals engaged in child exploitation online. The task force works in tandem with local law enforcement agencies, federal bodies such as the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and state prosecutors.
California has one of the largest and most active ICAC units in the country, dealing with a growing number of digital crimes against minors.
🚨 Call to Action and Safety Measures
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office is reminding parents and guardians to be vigilant about their children’s online activity. Officials encourage the use of parental control tools and stress the importance of maintaining open dialogue with children about internet safety.
If you or someone you know suspects the online exploitation of a child, you are urged to report it to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) through the CyberTipline at or by calling 1-800-843-5678.
Daniel Ray Michael remains in custody as investigations continue. The community, while reeling from the shock of the arrest, stands united in its support for safeguarding children and ensuring that justice is served for any victims involved.
Further updates are expected following his court appearance and the results of ongoing digital forensics.