Cal Fire Employee Arrested for Child Pornography in Patterson, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz

Joseph Trevor Forney, a full-time Cal Fire employee since 2023, was arrested on charges of possession and distribution of child pornography, including material involving children under 10 years old, following a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The arrest took place at a Cal Fire station in Patterson, California, where Forney was on duty. Detective Matt Phillips of the Manteca Police Department led the investigation using specialized online tools, resulting in search and arrest warrants. Forney, who has a prior criminal history unrelated to child sexual exploitation in Idaho and completed parole in 2024, faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges. Cal Fire officials stated they are closely following the case and emphasized their commitment to professional conduct standards. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to contact Detective Phillips regarding case #25-02083.