SPD investigation into child sex crimes leads to arrest in Florida suspect was former teacher at religious school in Spokane extradition to Washington State pending

Tyrone L. Cliff, a 38-year-old former teacher from Spokane, faces felony charges for possessing child sexual abuse material following his arrest in Florida. The investigation commenced when the Spokane Police Department's Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit received a CyberTip in August 2025, prompting detectives to identify Cliff as the suspect. As they prepared to execute search warrants, they learned he had moved to Florida, where he was employed as a middle school teacher. Law enforcement in Florida arrested him based on multiple felony warrants issued by Spokane detectives.

Cliff currently awaits extradition to Washington State from Hillsborough County Jail. The collaborative effort between the Spokane Police Department, Tampa Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement led to his swift apprehension. This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable populations. Ongoing efforts in tracking and prosecuting such crimes remain critical in safeguarding children from harm.