Washington Woman Robyn Polston, 43, Arrested for Sexual Assault and Child Pornography
WASHINGTON, Ill. — A quiet central Illinois community has been shaken by disturbing revelations after the Washington Police Department announced the arrest of 43-year-old Robyn Polston, a local resident, following an extensive investigation into allegations involving an inappropriate sexual relationship with a minor.
According to law enforcement officials, the investigation began several weeks ago after authorities received a report suggesting that Polston may have been engaging in illegal activity with a juvenile. Detectives from the Washington Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division immediately launched an inquiry, working closely with the Tazewell County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to ensure the case was handled with sensitivity and thoroughness.
On Monday, November 3, 2025, after gathering what investigators described as “substantial and corroborated evidence,” officers arrested Polston at her home on the 600 block of Elm Street in Washington. She was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Tazewell County Jail.
Police confirmed that Robyn Polston faces multiple serious felony charges, including Criminal Sexual Assault and Child Pornography. According to preliminary reports, the charges stem from allegations that Polston engaged in unlawful sexual conduct with a minor over an extended period and also produced or possessed explicit images involving the victim. Authorities have not released specific details about the age or identity of the minor, citing privacy protections and the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The Washington Police Department emphasized that the case has been a “top investigative priority” since the initial report was filed. Detectives conducted digital forensic examinations, reviewed communication records, and collected physical evidence before moving forward with an arrest. Officials also stated that investigators are working to determine whether additional victims may be involved.
Police Chief Mike McCoy addressed the media Tuesday morning, expressing both gratitude for the investigative team’s diligence and compassion for the victim and family.
“This was a deeply troubling case,” McCoy said. “We want to assure the community that we take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously. The safety of our children is our highest concern, and our detectives worked tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.”
Polston appeared before a Tazewell County judge for her initial court appearance on Tuesday afternoon, where prosecutors outlined the severity of the charges. The judge ordered Polston to be held on a $500,000 bond and prohibited her from contacting the victim or any minors while the case proceeds.
Community members have expressed shock and sadness in response to the arrest. Neighbors described Polston as someone who “kept to herself” but was active online and occasionally volunteered locally. Many said they were “stunned” to learn about the allegations, describing the situation as “heartbreaking” for all involved.
The Washington Police Department has urged anyone with further information to contact Detective Sergeant Laura Henderson at (309) 444-2313, emphasizing that even seemingly minor details could help in building the case. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the department’s CrimeStoppers line.
As of Wednesday, Polston remains in custody at the Tazewell County Jail. She is scheduled to appear in court later this month for a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors are expected to present additional evidence supporting the charges.
The Washington Police Department has reassured residents that there is no ongoing threat to the public, but the case serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting minors from exploitation—both online and within the community.
If convicted, Robyn Polston could face decades in prison, along with mandatory registration as a sex offender. The Tazewell County State’s Attorney’s Office has stated that it intends to pursue the case “to the fullest extent of the law.”
This case continues to unfold, and officials are encouraging patience and respect for the privacy of those affected as the judicial process moves forward.
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