Katie Hosteny

The case study will cover the long running investigation that began with Argos in 2017 and culminated in the identification and arrest of the offender in December 2025.

In 2017 Argos intercepted messages between dark web user attempting to negotiate payment with another dark web user in order to have access to a minor child. A review of the user's Communication/Material published to various Dark Web CSAM forums revealed the suspect was:
- American expatriate living in the Philippines since at least 2015
- Main source of income: Social Security
- Had a distinct New England Accent
- 5 known series in total with 4 known victims ranging in age from 8-16 years old

The case study will highlight investigative steps completed that led to the positive identification, to include large dataset analysis, travel pattern analysis, and collaboration with other government entities and partners in the Philippines. In addition, this presentation will highlight how forensic analysis allowed USSS investigators to extract and analyze useable fingerprints from the media, and the best practices to leverage these resources in Victim ID casework. Finally, this study will also highlight strategies that led to a successful interview and confession.