Colorado State Patrol Trooper Arrested in Colorado Springs for Child Exploitation

Trooper Taken Into Custody After Child Exploitation Allegations

Authorities in Colorado Springs confirmed the arrest of a Colorado State Patrol (CSP) member following allegations of child sexual exploitation. The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) stated the arrest was made on Tuesday, Sept. 10, after a joint investigation.

Tip Triggers Police Investigation

CSPD explained that the Internet Crimes Against Children unit received a notification from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children. The tip indicated that an individual had been “downloading child sexual abuse material via the internet.”

Detectives traced the activity to a member of the Colorado State Patrol. Their investigation ultimately identified the suspect as trooper Luke Zellman, age 42.

Arrest and Booking

Police reported that Zellman was taken into custody on Sept. 10 and charged with sexual exploitation of a child. Following his arrest, he was booked into the El Paso County Jail.

The Colorado State Patrol confirmed that Zellman, who joined the agency in 2014, initially served in Steamboat Springs before being reassigned to Colorado Springs in 2017. Officials also stated he has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case.

CSPD noted that a mugshot had been requested but was not immediately available in their system. The department indicated the photo would likely be released on Thursday.

Statement from Colorado State Patrol

In response to the arrest, CSP issued a written statement reinforcing its commitment to safety and accountability:

“The Colorado State Patrol and its members are committed to ensuring the safety of all persons and to adhering to our core values of honor, duty, and respect. We take these standards seriously and recognize that the success of our mission depends upon maintaining the trust and the safety of the public we serve. We respect and defer to the Colorado Springs Police Department and the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office regarding the ongoing investigation.”

Summary

• CSPD arrested trooper Luke Zellman, 42, on Sept. 10.

• Investigation began after a national tip about child sexual abuse material.

• Zellman has been booked into El Paso County Jail.

• He has been placed on administrative leave by CSP.

• CSP emphasized its commitment to honor, duty, respect, and public trust.