D.C. Cop Once Celebrated as First Gay Union Head Now Facing

A Washington, D.C. police lieutenant who was once publicly celebrated as the first openly gay chairman of the city’s police union is now facing serious criminal charges after an undercover child exploitation investigation.

Authorities say 47 year old Matthew Mahl was arrested in Maryland after allegedly exchanging explicit messages with someone he believed was a 15 year old boy. Investigators say the account was actually operated by law enforcement as part of a sting operation.

According to reports, Mahl allegedly requested sexual images and arranged to meet the supposed minor before being taken into custody when he arrived.

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Mahl had previously received public attention and praise for becoming the first openly gay leader of the D.C. Police Union, making the allegations all the more shocking.

He has since been placed on administrative leave, stripped of police powers, and is facing charges of sexual solicitation of a minor and solicitation of child pornography.

At the time of the original report, a preliminary court hearing was expected.

Update (Oct. 2, 2026): Mahl pleaded guilty on Aug. 7, 2026, in Harford County Circuit Court to two felony counts of sexual solicitation of a minor, according to WTOP. Sentencing was scheduled for Sept. 30; we could not find a report of the sentence.

Also reported by: Fox News.