Investigators with the Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Office initiated a criminal investigation in June 2026 after receiving a complaint of an individual utilizing an online account to attempt to commit child exploitation on a local child.
The investigation identified Nathaniel Johnston, 28, of Australia, as the account owner. Once his location was confirmed, authorities collaborated with Australian law enforcement to continue the investigation.
On June 24, Johnston was arrested by Australian authorities and charged with multiple online child sexual abuse offenses. Multiple electronic devices were seized from his residence and are awaiting forensic examination.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. There is no further information to release at this time.
ICAC Taskforce Investigators were assisted in this investigation by detectives with the Wabash County Sheriff’s Office and Australian law enforcement members of the Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team.
U.S. Attorney’s Office hosts fraud forum, announces creation of fraud task force in Southern District of Indiana
Road closure to remove tree limb scheduled for Friday
READI funds to aid art related projects in Wabash, Logansport, Tipton
The 2026 Indiana State Fair debuts new attractions, entertainment and family fun
IDEM forecasts Air Quality Action Day for Wednesday in three Indiana regions
Indiana customers to receive $350,000 in bill assistance from Duke Energy this summer
Car collectors can go retro with an authentic model year license plate
Lineup of 50 new food creations featured during this year's Indiana State Fair
