An active-duty service member identified as Peyton Chance Leckelt, 21, is currently being held in the Virginia Beach Jail following his arrest during a civilian-led child exploitation sting operation.
According to a press release issued by Predator Poachers, their investigation began after the February 15, 2026 apprehension of Sean Sayer of Naugatuck, Connecticut, who was allegedly out on federal bond for cyber crimes involving children. Predator Poachers claim that during their interview with Sayer, he identified a profile with whom he had exchanged illicit material. Two days later, they state, Sayer was rebooked into jail by the FBI.
The group alleges that continued communication with that identified profile led them to Peyton Leckelt, described in their statement as an active-duty service member living in Norfolk, Virginia.
On March 2, 2026, Predator Poachers say they confronted Leckelt in Virginia Beach after he allegedly attempted to meet the same undercover profile used in the prior arrest. The group claims that during the confrontation, Leckelt admitted to trading illicit material and attempting to meet for illegal purposes.
Virginia Beach Police were called to the scene and subsequently arrested him.
According to the Virginia Beach inmate database, Leckelt was booked on March 3, 2026, and is currently being held in jail with no bond permitted (unbondable).
The charge sheet lists the following offenses with an offense date of February 14, 2026:
- Attempted Carnal Knowledge of a 13 or 14-year-old (18.2-63) – Felony
- Procure Minor for Prostitution, Sodomy, or Pornography by Communication System – Felony
The record shows:
- Booking #: 26-001702
- Commitment Date: 03/03/2026
- County: Virginia Beach
- Bond Status: No Bond Permitted (set by Magistrate)
Leckelt’s listed date of birth, October 26, 2004, corresponds with a social media profile bearing the same name that identifies him as being from Kennewick, Washington, and currently living in Richmond, Virginia.
Predator Poachers stated this marks the second time in 2026 they have apprehended multiple individuals allegedly connected to the same online child exploitation ring.
They credited the Virginia Beach Police Department for what they described as a “great response” and said this is their fifth arrest they have assisted with in Virginia Beach this year.
At this time, it has not been confirmed whether federal charges may also be forthcoming, or whether the accused service member’s chain of command has initiated administrative or military justice proceedings.
Predator Poachers identified Leckelt as active duty Navy. As of publication, official confirmation from the Department of the Navy or Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) has not yet been released.
The Salty Soldier has contacted Navy officials seeking confirmation of Leckelt’s current duty status and whether any UCMJ action has been initiated.
This remains a developing story.
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