In June 2026, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office arrested 31-year-old Chester Cox, of Cottonwood, after investigating child molestation allegations reported years after the incidents occurred. Cox was arrested on multiple counts of sexual conduct with a minor and child molestation and is currently being held with no bond.
The initial six charges, including three of sexual conduct with a minor, two of molestation of child and one of continuous sexual abuse-child, were filed shortly afterward.
During the ongoing investigation, detectives executed a search warrant on Chester Cox’s electronic devices. Evidence recovered during the search warrant revealed additional criminal activity involving minors, according to a Friday, Aug. 21, press release.
YCSO detectives reportedly found hidden video-recording devices placed in areas under the suspect’s control, including inside his classroom and a private single-use connected restroom at Dr. Daniel Bright Elementary School in Cottonwood. Detectives have identified several minor children who were secretly recorded in the classroom and restroom and appeared to be unaware of the recordings. Based on the evidence reviewed so far, detectives do not have reason to believe that the material discovered has been distributed.
All impacted families have been contacted by the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office and have been provided information, resources and victim‑rights information. YCSO thanks The Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District for its help and cooperation throughout the investigation.
On Aug. 21, the suspect was booked on additional charges to include numerous counts of surreptitious videotaping and sexual exploitation of a minor.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the extremely serious nature of this case. To protect the privacy and well-being of the victims, it respectfully ask the community not to share or post any information that could reveal the identity of the victims or their families, now or in the future.
