UPDATE: A former corrections officer with the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office has been arrested on serious charges following a lengthy investigation into child exploitation. Robert “Tyler” Williams, aged 32, was taken into custody on December 23, 2025, by New York State Police as part of a probe initiated by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
The investigation, which began in September, was sparked by a referral concerning the sexual exploitation of a minor. Police executed court-authorized search warrants, leading to the seizure and forensic analysis of electronic devices owned by Williams. The results culminated in him facing charges of criminal possession of sexual performance of a child and criminal possession of a firearm.
As of now, Williams remains in custody at the Seneca County Jail and is awaiting arraignment in CAP court. The serious nature of these allegations has prompted Sheriff Timothy Thompson to express his shock and deep concern. He stated that this incident is “in no way reflective of the values or standards of this organization.”
Sheriff Thompson emphasized that Williams is no longer employed by the Sheriff’s Office and confirmed that an external agency has been engaged to ensure the investigation proceeds with complete transparency and impartiality. “We will continue to cooperate fully with the outside agency,” Thompson assured.
The Sheriff’s Office has committed to reviewing its hiring practices to guarantee compliance with professional standards. Thompson noted that significant improvements have been made since he took office on January 1, 2024, including the implementation of job-specific psychological evaluations, polygraph tests, and panel interviews to better vet prospective employees.
This unfolding situation raises critical concerns about safety and trust within the community. As the investigation progresses, local residents and officials alike await further updates on this disturbing case. The Seneca County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to uphold its mission to protect and serve with integrity, emphasizing its commitment to addressing such serious allegations head-on.
With the investigation ongoing, community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Further developments are expected as authorities continue their work in this sensitive matter. Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent issue as they become available.
