criminal complaint filed against local man

Yesterday the Washington County Attorney’s Office released information regarding an investigation that

lead to the arrest of Matthew Saunders age43, of Blair, Nebraska. On June 17, 2026, a fourteen-count criminal complaint was filed against Matthew Saunders alleging numerous violations of law.

June 18, Saunders was arrested near his home, and various search warrants were executed. The violations include sexual assault of a child, production of sexual abuse material, solicitation by means of electronic communication, intentional child abuse, and terroristic threats. The allegations allege that the defendant committed these acts between 2023 and 2025.

The investigation is ongoing and is being investigated by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by the Washington County Attorney’s Office. Following the recent arrest of Matthew Saunders, age 43, of Blair, Nebraska, and criminal charges announced by the Washington County Attorney's Office, the Washington County Sheriff's Office and Blair Police Department have received numerous tips, reports, and inquiries from community members, including individuals identifying themselves as potential victims and witnesses. In response to this information, Sheriff Mike Robinson and Chief Jeremy Kinsey have established a joint investigative task force comprised of investigators from the Criminal Investigations Bureaus of both agencies. The purpose of the task force is to review, investigate, and follow up on all information received related to this ongoing investigation.

As part of this effort, a dedicated reporting email address has been established for individuals who may have information relevant to the investigation: reportconcerns@blairne.gov.

Also a dedicated hotline has been established 531-209-4214

Individuals who believe they may have information related to this case, or who wish to report concerns, are encouraged to contact the task force through this email address. Investigators request that individu social media information, or any other information they believe may assist investigators. Every submission received through the reporting email address will be reviewed by the task force. A criminal investigator will contact each person who submits information to discuss the report and determine what follow-up may be necessary. The Washington County Sheriff's Office and Blair Police Department are committed to conducting a thorough and professional investigation of all information received. As this remains an active investigation, no additional details

regarding specific reports, allegations, or investigative findings will be released at this time.