Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Washoe County Detectives arrest Lemmon Valley man on juvenile sex crime charges

Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detectives have arrested Michael Wayne Purple, Jr., 45, on two counts of felony lewdness with a child charge.

Washoe County patrol deputies were originally made aware of this incident in June of 2021. After the initial report, Washoe County Sheriff's Office detectives took over the investigation. Detectives arrested Purple on October 12, 2021, for multiple sex offenses involving a minor victim. 

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone who may have information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detective Division at (775) 328-3320 or Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. Refer to case number WC21-2581.

Photo: PURPLE Jr, Michael (DOB 09/12/1976)

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

###