The FBI has located a man suspected of child sexual exploitation–and he may have been on Hawaii Island.
The suspect first came to the FBI’s attention in 2010 when a series of photographs surfaced on the Internet depicting the suspect apparently engaging in graphic sex acts with two children: a 4-year-old girl and 9-year-old boy (approximate ages). These photos were circulated widely among various illegal internet forums for the sharing of child pornography.
Investigators for the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children enhanced one of the photos to develop an image of what appears to be a 2008 Hawaiian Telcom phone book for Hawaii’s Big Island in the background. This image led investigators to believe that the photos were taken between 2008 and 2010. A desktop computer in the background of another photo leads investigators to conclude that the photo was likely not taken in a hotel room.
Special Agent Tom Simon said on Wednesday that tips from the public led to the identification of the individual. But he would not release any details about who the man is nor where he is. “The FBI can now conduct a thorough investigation into the photos that prompted this inquiry. At this moment, there have been no charges filed or arrests made. If our investigation culminates in criminal charges, we will make an announcement at that time. Thank you to our local press and to the people of Hawaii for spreading the word and assisting us in this matter. The public is reminded that the individual is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. The public is reminded that no charges have been filed in this case, and the suspect is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
