Sebastian Police Department volunteer arrested on 50 counts of possessing child porn

On April 16, Florida’s Sebastian Police Department issued a public notice saying that they arrested one of their police department’s volunteers, 75-year-old Arnold William Flannery, a resident of Sebastian.  Yesterday morning, detectives from both the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO) and the Sebastian Police Department (SPD) responded to Flannery’s residence in the 4000 block of Limerick Court and executed a warrant to search his home.

Flannery, a member of the Sebastian Police Departments volunteer program, was arrested following the search of his residence. He is now looking at multiple charges of possession of child pornography.  Officials said that they received a tip concerning Flannery’s activities.

“He was uploading and downloading. I can tell you it was very young children,” said Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers. “Our detectives from the scene talked about images of children between 4 and 8 years old. I mean, just awful, awful things.” ~ CBS 12 News

Flannery was initially booked on four counts of posessing child porn, but as the investigation into his activities evolved, and following the search of his residence, personal computer and cell phone, the number of child pornography possession charges grew to an alarming 50 counts.

Chief Daniel Acosta of the Sebastian Police Department expressed profound concern for the victims of such crimes, particularly children, stating, “the safety and well-being of our community’s children are of utmost importance. The behavior alleged in this case is abhorrent, and will not be tolerated by anyone, regardless of their position. Our thoughts are with the victims, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served. “

Acosta also thanked the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, and the detectives from both agencies for their swift and thorough investigation.

Flannery served as a volunteer with the Sebastian PD for almost the last two years, working mostly in traffic control or performing clerical duties. In those roles, he did not have any direct contact with children, according to The TC Palm.

Flannery is currently  being held at the Indian River County Jail pending further legal proceedings.

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(Source: Sebastian Police Department)

Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
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