Police Department

Sexual Assault Suspect That Fled Spokane Area, Arrested in Connecticut; Extradition to Washington State Pending

Officer Daniel Strassenberg, PIO

Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 1:42 p.m.

In July of 2025, the Spokane Police Department’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) initiated an investigation into allegations of rape by a male romantically involved with a female who resides in the City of Spokane. Through the course of the investigation, video evidence was obtained that corroborated the claims of the victim. Additional video evidence was gathered that showed the same suspect, exposing himself to a juvenile female who resided in the same residence as the adult victim.

On December 11, 2025, a warrant was issued for the arrest of 42-year-old Ryan M. Cheek for a total of 8 counts, including two counts of 2nd Degree Rape regarding the adult victim and counts of 1st Degree Child Molestation and Indecent Exposure in regard to the juvenile victim. SVU was provided with information that Cheek had fled the Spokane area when he learned of the investigation. Additional information obtained showed that Cheek had likely returned to his home state of Connecticut. The Spokane Police Department partnered with the United States Marshals Service (USMS) to initiate the capture of Cheek.

On December 16, the United States Marshals Service coordinated with local authorities in Connecticut and took Cheek into custody. The collaborative effort between the Spokane Police Department and the United States Marshals resulted in the quick apprehension of Cheek.

In the coming weeks, SVU Detectives will travel to Connecticut to assist in Cheek’s extradition to Spokane to face charges.

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