Published on: January 27, 2026, at 04:22h.
Updated on: January 27, 2026, at 04:22h.
- Ex-Washoe County prosecutor sentenced after lewd conduct incident.
- Peppermill surveillance allegedly captures indecent exposure in valet area.
- Judge suspends 180-day jail sentence with conditions including counseling and sobriety.
A former Nevada prosecutor, found in a compromising position at a Reno casino, has received a suspended jail sentence for charges of open and gross lewdness.
Kenneth Ching was discovered in a compromising position with an unidentified woman at the Peppermill Casino early on August 30, 2025. Authorities were called after reports surfaced of two individuals allegedly engaging in sexual acts in public. Upon arrival, officers found Ching with his zipper undone and exposed.
Ching entered a guilty plea on both counts in Reno Justice Court and received a 180-day jail sentence from Judge Scott Pearson. This sentence was suspended under the condition that he adheres to the law for one year, abstains from drugs and alcohol, and provides proof of participation in individual or group counseling. Additionally, he was mandated to complete 100 hours of community service, which he has already accomplished.
Recognized Legal Professional
Prior to his arrest, Ching was a deputy district attorney for Washoe County, covering Reno. He previously served as a law professor, earning accolades for his teaching and scholarly contributions, and was recognized as one of Nevada’s Legal Elite five times by Nevada Business Magazine.
However, on the morning of August 30, he was recorded on security footage in the valet area of the Peppermill partaking in what court documents labeled as “excessive indecent exposure,” clearly visible to other patrons.
The woman involved stated that their sexual encounter was consensual and was also arrested, though it is unclear if she faced any charges. She claimed to have met Ching earlier that evening at Chapel Tavern, a local bar. Although Ching suggested they book a room at the Peppermill, she declined.
While inside the casino, the woman reported that a drink spilled on her dress, leading Ching to escort her to the restroom, where he began to engage in inappropriate behavior before they moved to the valet area.
Surveillance footage reportedly captures the woman being pressed against a door while Ching, with his shorts and underwear down, thrusts in a sexual manner as guests walk by.
Commitment to Reform
Ching expressed regret for his actions on Monday, informing the court that he has been sober for four months and 27 days since his arrest.
“I am genuinely sorry and profoundly ashamed,” Ching said, as reported by The Reno Gazette-Journal. “I am horrified by my own conduct in this situation. Beyond recognizing the gravity of my actions, I believe the most sincere response I can offer is a genuine and enduring dedication to change.”