Modoc County Man Arraigned on 32 Felony Counts
December 29, 2025 – Alturas Police officials report that a Modoc County man was arraigned on 32 felony counts involving the sexual exploitation of children.
Alturas Police Officers Association officials would like to acknowledge the critical partnership between Alturas 
Police Department's investigating officer, Officer Jonathan Morgan, assisting officers from or agency, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC), and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in the investigation of crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children.
On December 17, 2025, James Fine of Alturas was arrested following a coordinated investigation and the service of a search warrant upon his residence. Fine was held on 32 felony counts of Penal Code section 311.11(a), possession of child sexual abuse material. Each of the 32 counts represents a separate video, with each video being the legal equivalent of 50 individual images under California law equating to 1,600 potential counts. As the investigation continues and additional digital evidence is reviewed, several more charges are expected to be added.
The Alturas Police Officers Association would also like to recognize and extend our respect to the Honorable Judge Randall Harr for acknowledging the violent and predatory nature of crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children and for holding Fine in custody on a no bail remand during Fine's arraignment on December 18, 2025. Judicial decisions that prioritize community safety and the protection of children are a critical part of the justice process.
Crimes involving child sexual abuse material are considered violent because each image or video documents the real abuse of a real child. Every time that material is possessed, shared, or viewed, the victimization is perpetuated. These offenses are not victimless and the harm does not end when the abuse stops. Courts recognize that continued possession fuels demand, retraumatizes victims, and poses an ongoing threat to public safety.
Cases involving crimes against children are complex, time intensive, and emotionally difficult for everyone involved. They rely heavily on interagency cooperation, advanced forensic analysis, and the tireless work of investigators committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community.
The Alturas Police Officers Association remains committed to supporting efforts that hold offenders accountable and safeguard children through vigilance, partnerships, and the pursuit of justice.
Source: Alturas Police Officers Association
