September 2, 2026
On July 30, the Tama County Sheriff’s Office released information regarding a search warrant executed in Toledo as part of an investigation involving the online sexual exploitation of children. At that time, we said additional information would be released when we could responsibly do so. We are now able to provide an update.
As a result of the investigation, Ronald Wyatt Langbecker Jr., 19, was arrested and charged with 10 counts of Purchasing or Possessing Depiction of a Minor in a Sex Act, First Offense.
The allegations contained in the criminal complaints are extremely disturbing. We are intentionally not going to describe them further. There is no benefit to publicly repeating graphic and disturbing allegations involving children. There are victims, families, and innocent people to consider as well.
We also have to be mindful that this case has now moved into the court system. These are allegations that have not been proven, and Langbecker is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. What we say publicly can reach potential jurors, and we will not risk unnecessarily affecting the judicial process. Justice needs to be based on the evidence presented in court.
Most importantly, we want to recognize the men and women of Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, who led this investigation from the beginning. Our office assisted after becoming an ICAC affiliate while this investigation was already underway.
The work these investigators do cannot be overstated. They routinely have to see and examine some of the most vile and disturbing evidence imaginable involving the exploitation of children. They do it because somebody has to identify victims, follow the evidence, and investigate these crimes. It is difficult, necessary, and incredibly important work. They deserve tremendous credit for what they do every day, much of which the public will never see or hear about.
We also thank the Toledo IA Police Dept and the other law enforcement partners who assisted with this investigation.
Criminal charges have been filed, and the matter will now proceed through the judicial process. To protect the integrity of the pending prosecution, the Tama County Sheriff’s Office will not provide additional information at this time.
Sheriff Casey Schmidt
Tama County Sheriff’s Office
June 9, 2026
