Erich Zeeb : Roanoke Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation in Michigan

A grand jury in Roanoke, Virginia has indicted 49-year-old Erich Zeeb on three counts of sexual exploitation of a child, according to the United States Attorney’s Office. The charges carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years if convicted.

Authorities have identified Zeeb as a resident of Roanoke, but records show that he has previously lived in Houston, Texas and Colorado Springs, Colorado. The investigation into Zeeb’s alleged crimes spans multiple states and involves a 15-year-old victim from Marquette County, Michigan.

Allegations and Investigation

The indictment, unsealed last Friday, alleges that Zeeb engaged in multiple instances of sexually explicit conduct with the minor in July 2012. The document states that Zeeb “employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced” the victim to participate in these activities for the purpose of producing visual depictions.

Authorities believe that Zeeb may have used various online platforms, including emails, social media, and dating apps, to communicate and coordinate these illegal activities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigators are actively working on the case and urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Protecting Children from Exploitation

Speaking on behalf of the prosecution, a representative stated, “We are committed to pursuing justice in this case as part of our ongoing mission to safeguard children and teenagers from sexual exploitation. These heinous acts have long-lasting repercussions on the victims, and we will do everything in our power to hold the perpetrator accountable.”

If you have any information related to Erich Zeeb’s activities or potential victims, please contact the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan, Marquette Branch Office, at 906-226-2500.