MANITOWOC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Steven Wester was sentenced Friday to a year in jail on child pornography possession charges.
Wester, 48, pleaded no contest to two counts of possession of child pornography, and one count of possessing/distributing an intimate representation. Seven other counts were dismissed, court records show.
In addition to the jail time, Wester was placed on probation for three years by Judge Mark Rohrer. Conditions include placement on the sex offender registry for 15 years, no internet access without permission, and no contact with minors, records state.
Two of the counts could be dismissed after five years, if there are no other violations, court records say.
On Dec. 11, 2024, police served a search warrant in the 1300 block of Kellner Street. The search warrant was based on a tip from the Wisconsin Department of Justice that an individual at that location was in possession of child sexual abuse materials.
The tip received was that a suspect had uploaded an image to an internet search engine attempting to search for similar type images. The file was reviewed by investigators and confirmed to be an image containing child sexual abuse material.
During the search warrant, numerous electronic devices had been seized. Subsequent forensic analysis has located a large number of similar themed images and videos of child sexual abuse material in the approximate 12-14 age range.
Because of Wester’s involvement with area youth sports, police said they are looking to identify any other potential victims.
If you are or are aware of any other potential victims, call Manitowoc Police Department Detective Jason Denk at (920) 686-6557, the Manitowoc Police Department Shift Commander’s Office at (920) 686-6551. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (920) 683-4466 or the P3 smartphone app. Tipsters may remain anonymous if they choose.
