A 33-year-old man from Ocala was taken into custody after allegedly using a popular mobile messaging app to access videos and images of children, some as young as toddlers, being sexually abused.
Investigation Triggered by Cyber Tip
Following a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation into an account that had uploaded multiple files of child sexual abuse material via the Kik messaging app. Authorities discovered that various IP addresses in Central Florida had been used to upload these disturbing files, including videos depicting the sexual abuse of a female toddler.
Search Warrants and Arrest
After obtaining a search warrant for a Kik account linked to Duane Ralph Murphy, investigators reportedly found additional files of child sexual abuse material. A subsequent search warrant was executed at Murphy’s residence in Ocala, where he was present with his girlfriend and their infant child. Murphy was taken into custody and admitted to using a Kik account to access child sexual abuse material.
Seizure of Electronic Devices
Electronic devices belonging to Murphy were seized during the search, and a forensic analysis uncovered images of toddlers and young children engaged in sexual acts with adults. Additional devices are currently under examination, which could result in further charges against Murphy.
Currently held on a $50,000 bond, Murphy faces three counts of possession of child pornography. A court date has been set for Tuesday, August 20, according to jail records.
