News


FDLE arrests Milton man for possession of child sexual abuse material

 
For Immediate Release
June 8, 2021
 
SANTA ROSA COUNTY, Fla. – 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 images and the sexual battery of children depicted in them, 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.
 
For Further Information Contact:
FDLE Office of Public Information
(850) 410-7001
 

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FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. To learn more about these areas, read our Statement of Agency Organization and Operation or visit our Open Government page.