Child Exploitation Suspect Charged in Granite City

On Friday August 1, 2025, Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a disturbance in the 2500 block of Meadowlane Drive in unincorporated Granite City The incident involved two male subjects one of whom was later accused of soliciting sexual acts from a minor.

Following the initial response, which resulted in no immediate charges, deputies launched a formal investigation into the allegation. A safety plan was implemented for the minor, and multiple items of evidence were seized.

Madison County Detectives from the Digital Forensics Division pursued the case further, executing search warrants and conducting interviews. Their investigation uncovered additional evidence supporting the claim. The suspect was also identified as a registered sex offender with a prior, unrelated conviction.

On August 15, 2025, the case was reviewed by the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office. A warrant was issued and signed by Judge Jumper.

Matthew L. Dodd, 45, of the 2100 block of Robert Avenue in Granite City, was formally charged with:

Indecent Solicitation of a Child (Class 2 Felony)

Two Counts of Unlawful Failure to Register as a Sex Offender – Second Subsequent Offense (Class 2 Felony)

Dodd remains in custody at the Madison County Jail

Sheriff Jeff Connor commended his team stating “I am proud of my Deputies and Digital Forensic Detectives that investigated this case I will continue to provide resources for our Detectives to investigate all types of crimes but especially any crimes against children”

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law