A USA Climbing coach has been arrested in Utah following a months-long investigation into online child exploitation material.
Matthew Maddison, 37, who served as the USA Climbing Speed Team Manager and strength and conditioning coach, was taken into custody on April 28 and booked into Summit County Jail near Salt Lake City.
Authorities charged Maddison with 10 counts of second-degree felony sexual exploitation of a minor. He is currently being held without bail while awaiting trial.
According to court documents referenced in multiple reports, the investigation began after a social media company submitted a CyberTipline report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on March 16, 2025.
The report flagged an account suspected of distributing illegal material involving minors.
The Utah Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force later identified the account and linked it to Maddison after executing search warrants and gathering digital evidence.
Investigators reported that the account had shared more than 30 files of illegal content.
A search of Maddison’s residence in Summit County allegedly uncovered a large amount of similar material on electronic devices.
Law enforcement also stated that Maddison admitted to owning the social media account and the associated email address during questioning.
Authorities further alleged that evidence indicated the material had been accessed and distributed over a period of time, with investigators noting activity dating back to mid 2024.
Each count of sexual exploitation under Utah law is treated as a separate felony offense, and convictions can carry significant prison sentences.
The case has drawn attention due to Maddison’s role within USA Climbing, where he worked closely with competitive athletes and was involved in travel planning, training programs, and team support at national and international events.
Response from USA Climbing and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Following Maddison’s arrest, USA Climbing confirmed that he had been placed on unpaid administrative leave. In a statement, the organization said it was cooperating fully with law enforcement and emphasized that athlete safety remains its highest priority.
Officials also noted that employees undergo mandatory background checks and that the organization complies with requirements set by the U.S. Center for SafeSport.
USA Climbing added that the allegations appear to be unrelated to Maddison’s coaching responsibilities but acknowledged being deeply disturbed by the situation.
The arrest has prompted broader discussion within the climbing community and on social media, where many have questioned how long Maddison had access to a position of trust before the investigation reached its conclusion.
Some commenters have also raised concerns about safeguarding policies and oversight within youth sports organizations.
Court records indicate that prosecutors successfully requested Maddison be held without bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and his lack of U.S. citizenship as factors in the decision.
He remains in custody as the case moves forward through the judicial system.
Law enforcement officials have stated that the investigation remains ongoing, and additional details may be released as the case develops. No trial date has been publicly confirmed.
The situation continues to develop as both legal proceedings and internal reviews proceed.
USA Climbing has not announced any further disciplinary actions beyond Maddison’s suspension, and officials have stated they will continue to cooperate with investigators as required.
