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

On October 28, 2025, Florida law enforcement arrested Tyrone L. Cliff, 38, on felony charges for possessing material depicting child sexual abuse. The investigation began in August when the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit received a CyberTip about Cliff's online activities. Detectives identified him as the suspect and prepared to serve search warrants at his Spokane residence, learning he had moved to Florida. Felony warrants were issued after collaboration between the Spokane Police Department, Tampa Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement led to his arrest.

At the time of his arrest, Cliff was working as a middle school teacher in Hillsborough County. This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and the importance of inter-agency cooperation in such investigations. Cliff remains in custody at the Hillsborough County Jail, awaiting extradition to Washington State. The investigation underscores the critical role of the ICAC unit in addressing online child exploitation.