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Box Elder, Utah (ABC4) – In September 2025, a Utah Highway Patrol trooper resigned after being accused of distributing material harmful to minors and obscene materials.
Robert Nelson, 57, was charged with one count of distribution of material harmful to minors, one count of obstruction of justice by conduct, a second- or third-degree felony, and three counts of obscenity.
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According to court documents, Nelson invited a 17-year-old man to his home for a drink of water, then showed the victim images from an explicit video and asked if the victim would like to watch the video.
The victim refused and left the home, and Nelson allegedly followed him, took off his clothes and stood in his garage. He began engaging in sexual activity while watching the victim mow a nearby lawn, court documents state.
This reportedly happened at least two more times, during which Nelson tried to wave the victim over to him.
Nelson is a trooper with the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP). On September 25, 2025, the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office alerted the Utah Department of Public Safety that they were investigating criminal activity involving Nelson.
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UHP immediately placed Nelson on administrative leave. The Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office and the Box Elder County Prosecutor’s Office conducted a criminal investigation and determined that criminal charges will be filed against Nelson.
UHP confirmed today that Nelson resigned from their agency on February 20, 2026. According to UHP, he has been with the agency for approximately 12 years and his position included standard patrol duties and commercial vehicle inspections.
Nelson’s first court appearance is scheduled for 9:45 a.m. on March 23, 2026. He is not yet in custody.
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