Kennewick Man Arrested in Alarming Child Sexual Exploitation Scandal
A 26-year-old Kennewick man was arrested for the sexual exploitation of children.
Detectives with the Kennewick Police Department uncovered evidence to support allegations that the suspect was engaged in communication with underage victims.
Chanse J. Harmelle is accused of using social media sites and applications to contact and engage in immoral communication with unsuspecting young victims.
Since his arrest on June 8th, the Benton County Prosecutor's Office has charged Harmelle with two counts of Rape of a Child in the 3rd Degree, and one count of Rape of a Child in the 2nd Degree. Harmelle is also charged with one count of Promoting a Suicide Attempt.
Anyone who may have information about this case is urged to contact the Kennewick Police Department non-emergency dispatch line at 509-628-0333. If you have any information or details, you can anonymously send a tip at www.KPDtips.com.