Billings Child Predator Is Taken Down in Undercover Sting

A Billings man is headed to federal prison, and for many families in our community, this sentencing brings a sense of relief. One more predator is no longer walking free, thanks to a detailed investigation and the work of federal agents who stepped in before more harm could happen.

Billings Man Receives Nine-Year Federal Prison Sentence

Forty-one-year-old Kole David Kuntz of Billings has been sentenced to 108 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing child pornography earlier this year, and a U.S. District Court judge handed down the sentence on Tuesday.

Investigation Launched After Suspect Contacts Undercover Account

According to court documents, the investigation started in November 2024 when law enforcement created an undercover online persona. Within a short period, Kuntz reached out to what he believed was an adult with a minor child. From there, court documents show that the conversations quickly turned disturbing.

READ MORE: Billings Man Admits to Brutal Kidnapping After Victim’s Dramatic Escape

Illegal Videos Sent During Escalating Online Exchange

As investigators continued the exchange online, Kuntz made increasingly predatory comments and showed clear interest in what he believed was a twelve-year-old girl. He later moved the conversation to a different messaging platform and sent multiple illegal videos involving minors, confirming his intent and involvement in the crimes.

Evidence Recovered at Billings Residence Supports Charges

Once law enforcement identified Kuntz, they executed a search at his Billings residence. During that search, investigators found communications, images, and videos that backed up the online conversations. Kuntz later admitted to being the individual behind the messages and the distribution of the illegal content.

Federal Team Leads Case Through Project Safe Childhood

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno Baucus, and the investigation was handled by the FBI. The effort was part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide program committed to identifying and removing predators while protecting children across the country.

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A Win for Local Families and for Child Safety

With this sentencing, one more predator is off the streets of Billings. For parents and families trying to keep their kids safe, cases like this highlight how important it is that these investigations continue and that they’re supported by strong cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies.