FDLE agents arrested Joseph Sanderson, 67, of Milton, today on 15 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material, in violation of Florida Statute 827.071(5)(a), a third-degree felony. Due to the number of videos/images and the sexual battery of children depicted in the videos, each count qualifies to be enhanced to second-degree felonies based on F.S. 775.0847(2)(a)(b).
The investigation began in March based on information that an online address was being used to request multiple files depicting child sexual abuse. Today, FDLE agents, assisted by the Milton Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, served a search warrant at Sanderson’s residence. During the search, numerous printed magazines were found and seized that contained images depicting child sexual abuse. Some of the child victims were as young as three years old.
Sanderson was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail with no bond pending first appearance. Additional charges are dependent upon completion of forensics exams. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, First Judicial Circuit.
Please visit the FDLE website to review tips for keeping your children safe online at: https://www.secureflorida.org/SF/Family-Safety/BPParents.
