Suspect In Child Pornography Investigation Released From Custody

YUCCA VALLEY, CA — A 37-year-old Yucca Valley man who was arrested last week after investigators allegedly found explicit images of child sexual abuse material on his electronic devices, has been released from custody.

Dowland Ernest Christian Lee was arrested Tuesday, Aug. 4, at his home in the 8100 block of Cholla Avenue in Yucca Valley and booked into the Morongo Basin jail on suspicion of possessing child pornography following an investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

Jail records show he was released from custody Saturday, Aug. 8, with formal charges pending. He was being held in lieu of $30,000 bail, according to the sheriff's department.

The investigation into Lee began June 11 when Detective Holguin of the Crimes Against Children Detail received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding the online upload of child sexual abuse material, according to the sheriff's department.

Investigators identified Lee as the suspect and served a search warrant at his home on Aug. 4. During the search, detectives allegedly uncovered multiple explicit images on Lee's electronic devices.

Authorities ask anyone with additional information about the case to contact Detective Wendy Winegar with the Crimes Against Children Detail at 909-890-4904. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can text "REPORT" to We-Tip at 844-909-3006 or submit a report online at the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department We-Tip portal.