Arraignment and Charges Filed Against Former Cal Fire Employee in Child Pornography Case

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office has formally arraigned Joseph Trevor Forney, a former employee of Cal Fire, on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to the possession and distribution of child pornography. The charges stem from an investigation initiated following a cyber tip received by the Manteca Police Department from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) on May 8, 2025.

Forney, who had been employed full-time with Cal Fire since 2023 and was stationed in Patterson, California, was arrested while on duty on June 5, 2025. The investigation revealed that Forney allegedly possessed and distributed child pornography, including content involving children under the age of 10.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office has charged Forney with the following counts:

• 1 count of: 311.11(a) - Possession of child pornography, Felony

• 1 count of: 311.11(c)(1) - Possession of over 600 images, including more than 10 images of children under 12, Felony

• 10 counts of: 311.2(c) - Distribution of child pornography, Felony

• 1 count of: Annoying or molesting a minor under 18 years of age, Misdemeanor

Forney faces a potential sentence of up to 13 years and 4 months in prison; however, this is an ongoing investigation.  

His bail has been set at $1.3 million.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the Manteca Police Department, strongly encourages anyone with information about this case, or who may know of children who have disclosed being victimized by Joseph Forney to phone in tips to Detective Phillips at (209) 456-8101. Please reference case #25-02083 when contacting.

Statement from District Attorney Ron Freitas:

“This is a sobering moment as we confront the heinous crimes alleged against Joseph Forney. These are deeply disturbing acts that no parent, neighbor, or citizen should ever have to confront. My office will ensure that those who prey on the innocent face the full consequences of their actions. We are committed to delivering justice for the victims.”

The next court date is scheduled for July 1, 2025, at 8:30 AM in Department M1.