Arizona court documents say he's been running the adoption scheme since 2015. Petersen faces charges of conspiracy, fraud, theft and forgery in Arizona. 
The website for Petersen's law office says it specializes in private adoption, which "occurs without the direct involvement of a 3rd party—such as an adoption agency or a state agency." The website also says Petersen has contacts in Arizona, Arkansas and Utah. 
The website says it would cost $30,000 to $40,000 to adopt a child through Petersen's firm.
Paul D. Petersen
Maricopa County Assessor Paul D. Petersen
12 News
Authorities were seen raiding Petersen's Mesa home and law office Tuesday evening.  
The investigation involves the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and authorities from Arizona, Arkansas and Utah. 
Petersen will face additional charges in Arkansas, according to the Utah Attorney General's Office.