COLDWATER, MI — Branch County District Judge Brent Weigle partially suppressed statements made by Ryan Shortridge, 44, of Algansee Township, who faces seven felonies tied to child sexually abusive material.
The June 18 ruling found Michigan State Police should have stopped questioning Shortridge after he requested an attorney.
The October 2025 investigation began with a tip from the KIK app, leading authorities to allege Shortridge uploaded illicit material via Starlink at his home.
At a May hearing, Weigle considered whether Shortridge’s statements to troopers—including giving his phone passcode, which unlocked alleged evidence—could be used at trial.
Defense attorney Takura Nyamfukudza argued Shortridge was effectively in custody when cybercrime troopers executed a search warrant on Oct. 16, 2025.
Testimony revealed Shortridge’s wife was told to call him home under a false pretext, and when he arrived, armed officers questioned him outside and separated him from his wife.
Nyamfukudza said Shortridge invoked his right to counsel, stating he “would rather talk to [his] lawyer,” but questioning continued, leading him to give up his passcode.
Chief Assistant Prosecutor Nora Geiger countered that Shortridge was not in custody for Miranda purposes, noting he returned voluntarily, was questioned outside, and told he was free to leave.
Weigle ruled the initial 20-minute encounter was not custody under Miranda, but found troopers should have stopped or advised Shortridge of his rights after he asked for a lawyer.
Instead, they continued the interview and requested his passcode.
The judge deferred ruling on whether evidence from the phone—images and messages—will be admissible.
That issue awaits a separate motion and hearing. A status conference is set for 30 days.
Shortridge remains free on a $200,000 bond, barred from contact with minors and internet use. If convicted, he faces decades in prison and sex offender registration.
Contact Don Reid, dReid@USATodayCo.Com
This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Judge suppresses statements in child porn case, no ruling on phone
Reporting by Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter / Coldwater Daily Reporter
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By Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter | USA TODAY Network
