Arlington Police officer Dustin Bartlett was arrested again on Friday for violating the conditions of his pre-trial release related to child sexual abuse material charges. Bartlett, 41, allegedly violated a protection order that prohibited him from contacting or approaching his girlfriend, who had reported him in May for possessing more than 1,000 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Neighbors called 911 to report that Bartlett was back at his home, in violation of the protection order. He is now being held at the Island County Jail, where bail for the newest charges is set at $50,000. However, the possibility of bail was previously revoked due to the original CSAM charges.
Bartlett made his first court appearance over the phone on Saturday. At the time of his initial arrest in May, he was relieved of police powers and placed on administrative leave, a status that remains unchanged. The Arlington Police Department confirmed it is aware that Bartlett was arrested by the Island County Sheriff’s Office for allegedly violating pre-trial release conditions.
The department stated the recent arrest does not affect the initial investigation into CSAM and said it will continue to support the Island County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation. Arlington Police Chief Jonathan Ventura said, “These allegations, if sustained, is just a shock and a blow to everyone here within the department.”
Bartlett was once selected “Officer of the Year” at the Arlington Police Department. Bartlett’s girlfriend, who reported the CSAM, said over the phone that the discovery has been jarring. Sarah Graham, a next-door neighbor, said, “She’s very brave. I give her a lot of credit for being strong enough. Cause a lot of women wouldn’t feel wouldn’t feel able to do that.” Graham also said, “People put a lot of trust into police and doctors. People that are supposed to be there to protect our kids. And, the public. It’s pretty difficult.” Authorities are offering support to any victims identified through their findings.