KBI: Leavenworth leader arrested on child exploitation crimes after two dozen tips

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Investigators released more information about the planning commissioner for Leavenworth that was arrested for crimes against children.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Leavenworth Police Department said Jonathan D. Kesler, 43, of Leavenworth, was arrested Friday afternoon. He was then booked into the Leavenworth County Jail.

Kesler was arrested on eight counts of sexual exploitation of a child. The KBI said the accusations against Kesler involved the possession of media depicting a child under the age of 18.

Additional information in the case show the KBI started investigating Kesler earlier this year. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children forwarded more than 30 cyber-tips to the KBI about Kesler.

As part of the investigation, KBI agents said they obtained a search warrant for a home near Sherman Avenue and Terrace Road in Leavenworth. The home was searched on May 20, 2026, according to the KBI. They did seize evidence from the home according to information released in the investigation.

Kesler posted bond Friday and was released from custody.