Springfield Twp. firefighter arrested on child pornography charges

MAUMEE, Ohio (WTVG) - A local firefighter was arrested Wednesday morning after federal authorities say he admitted to committing sexual acts against minors and possessed “hundreds if not 1,000 images” of child pornography.

Records from the Department of Justice show Jeremy Dean Chesser, of Maumee, is facing Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography charges. The Springfield Fire Department confirms Chesser, a firefighter and paramedic, is on unpaid administrative leave while an internal review is underway as part of department policy when an employee is charged with a crime.

Authorities conducted a search warrant at Chesser’s Maumee home around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. The DOJ says he agreed to an interview in which he admitted to committing sexual acts against multiple children, including a 2-year-old and a 3-year-old, as well as watching pornography with children. Authorities also say he admitted to posing as a teenager to solicit child pornography from teen girls. He allegedly admitted to consuming child pornography for more than 10 years.

The criminal complaint alleges Chesser communicated with an undercover FBI agent on Kik throughout August 2023. During those conversations, Chesser allegedly described sexual acts with a minor in detail and sent nude images of minors to the agent. Kik provided IP address logs associated with Chesser’s account to the FBI after agents issued a subpoena.

The complaint said Chesser is a foster parent and prosecutors tells 13 Action News the children are now in custody of Children Services.

The Springfield Township Fire Department released a statement Thursday asking the public for patience as the case plays out in the courts and the department is investigating to ensure the any incidents did not affect the community. The full statement is as follows:

“As the recent events of the past 24 hours have unfolded our department has remained vigilant and unwavering in our commitment to serve and protect each one of you. This event can not go unrecognized, however the legal rights and proceedings of the accused must be honored and WILL be followed by Springfield Township according to Ohio Law.

The alleged actions of one person does not represent the personnel of the department, or the mission statement of which we were founded upon. Our leadership team is working tirelessly to ensure our employees have the help that they need to get through this trying time. By taking care of our employees we are continuing our solemn vow to the community to be there for you in your greatest time of need.

We ask for patience from you as the legal proceedings take place, and understand we are looking into every possibility to ensure this incident did not affect anyone in our community in anyway.”

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