Florida Man Arrested on Multiple Child Porn-Related Charges

A Florida man has been arrested for multiple child porn crimes after the man was found to be soliciting teen girls for sexually explicit photos.

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office (VSO) announced that detectives arrested a man at a Deltona residence on the morning of December 19 following a child exploitation investigation.

According to VSO, detectives executed a search warrant at a home on Halstead Street after occupants failed to respond to repeated requests to open the door. Investigators used a battering ram to enter the residence and seized multiple electronic devices as part of the investigation. The sheriff’s office later released video footage of the operation.

The suspect was taken into custody and charged with five counts of directing the sexual performance of a child, four counts of child pornography possession, use of a computer to solicit a child while misrepresenting his age, illegal use of a two-way communication device, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

The investigation began in October 2025 after the sheriff’s office received a cyber tip alleging that the suspect was soliciting girls between the ages of 13 and 16 for sexually explicit images. Investigators say the solicitations allegedly involved offering items such as vapes, drugs, and gifts in exchange for explicit content.

Detectives believe the suspect may have met with at least one juvenile in person and received sexual acts in exchange for those items. During the two-month investigation, detectives gathered additional evidence to identify the suspect and determine his location.

VSO stated that investigators interviewed a 16-year-old victim, who helped identify the suspect. Authorities say additional charges may be filed once a full forensic examination of the seized electronic devices is completed.

In Florida, engaging in sexual acts in exchange for gifts, money, or anything of value is illegal and classified as prostitution or solicitation. The severity of the charges and penalties depends on the number of prior convictions and the ages of those involved.

If the person solicited or engaged with is under 18 years of age, the charge is automatically a second-degree felony, regardless of prior history, and carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

This is different from a “sugar baby” arrangement. These arrangements often involve an exchange of money or gifts for companionship, they are generally not considered illegal prostitution unless there is an explicit, immediate agreement for a specific sexual act in exchange for payment. The key legal distinction lies in the intent and the specific nature of the agreement.

Contact a Legal Professional for Help

Soliciting teen girls is still considered child porn. It is important to understand that minors cannot consent to sexual activities.

Arrested? Accused of a sex crime? Get the legal help you need from a Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit. We help clients through the criminal defense process and work to protect them from negative public exposure. Fill out the online form or call (352) 505-1799 to schedule a consultation with our office.

Source:

wfla.com/news/video-florida-detectives-arrest-man-accused-of-possession-of-child-porn-soliciting-children-online/