Authorities arrested 24-year-old Bryce Berhenke from Materville on multiple counts related to child sexual abuse materials, including dissemination and possession involving minors under and over the age of 13. Special Agents executed a search warrant at Berhenke’s home, collecting electronic evidence confirmed to contain illegal material. Berhenke remains in custody at Mercer County Jail, with the investigation supported by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.
Bryce Berhenke is charged with five counts of Dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Materials (Class X Felony), three counts of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials Under 13 (Class 2 Felony), and two counts of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials Over 13 (Class 3 Felony).
Illinois State Police Special Agents executed a search warrant at a Matherville home on November 20, 2025, uncovering electronic evidence related to child sexual abuse materials. The investigation led to the arrest of Berhenke, who now faces multiple charges and remains in custody at the Mercer County Jail. Officials urge anyone with knowledge of such crimes to report them anonymously through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s cyber tip line at www.cybertipline.com. Resources for parents, the public, and survivors seeking support or information on online safety are available through the Illinois Attorney General’s website and other organizations.
