GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – The Gainesville Police Department (GPD) has arrested a man on suspicion of child pornography possession.
Police arrested 21-year-old Joseph Carnes on Wednesday, May 8.
They say the investigation was prompted following a cyber tip indicating that a Snapchat user residing at 2307 SW 32nd Place, Apt. 8., possessed and shared child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the social media platform.
According to GPD, a 57-minute video depicting the sexual assault of a child was found on Carnes’ account.
Police say Carnes admitted ownership of the account but denies sharing the video. They say he claimed someone hacked his old cellphone, Snapchat account, and internet to share the CSAM on his account.
Police say after digital examiners found sexual abuse material on Carnes’ new cellphone; he invoked his rights to not speak without an attorney present.
Carnes is being held on felony charges of possession of child pornography.
His bond is set at $80,000.
Advice for parents
Whenever there are cases of this nature, GPD reminds parents to be aware that children are being solicited and exploited through social networking and messaging apps. Officers encourage parents to have age-appropriate conversations with children about the dangers of the internet. GPD says parents need to be vigilant and aware of any social networking platforms your children may use.