CLEARWATER, Fla. – A 50-year-old Clearwater resident is behind bars tonight following a targeted investigation by local authorities into the online distribution of illegal material. Christopher J. Daddio was taken into custody on Thursday, after detectives with the Cyber Investigations Unit linked him to a series of digital files involving the exploitation of minors.
The case began when investigators received a tip regarding the access and viewing of child pornography over the internet. Using specialized digital forensics and investigative techniques, the unit was able to trace the activity back to Daddio.
READ: $7.8 Million Florida Cargo Theft Ring Toppled: 6 Facing 300 Years For Stripping State’s Supply Chain
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, the evidence seized during the probe included images of children ranging in age from 3 to 14 years old.
Daddio faces 20 felony counts of possession of child pornography. Following his arrest, he was processed and transported to the Pinellas County Jail.
While the initial charges have been filed, officials noted that the investigation remains active as they continue to review electronic evidence.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox
