Corporal with Towson University Police Department arrested on child pornography charges

Police in Baltimore County reported that a corporal in the Towson University Police Department, Peter Publico, was arrested on June 22 and charged with two counts of distributing/promoting child pornography.  The 53-year-old corporal and Essex, Maryland, resident was also charged with one count of possessing child pornography.

The investigation began after police discovered that in February, Publico electronically distributed child pornography to others. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Publico on June 18.  The Towson University employee turned himself into police on the morning of June 22.

Publico is currently being held at the Baltimore County Detention Center on a no bail status pending a bail review hearing.

CBS News in Baltimore reported that Publico is scheduled to appear in court later today for a bail hearing. CBS (WJZ) also shared a statement issued by the University which stated that the child pornography crimes did not involve any campus property:

“TU takes this matter very seriously,” the university wrote. “The individual is suspended without pay, restricted from campus and his law enforcement duties have been revoked. The individual is in custody at the Baltimore County detention center.”

Detectives from the Baltimore County Crimes Against Children Unit are investigating this incident. Anyone who may have additional information regarding this case is asked to contact detectives by calling 410-307-2020. Callers may remain anonymous.

(Source: Baltimore County Police)
(Peter Publico Booking Photo, Image credit: Baltimore County Police)

~ Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today / Connect with Richard on Facebook and Twitter