Deputies arrest man after Gibsonton search finds child abuse files

Detectives arrested a 28-year-old man after a search at a Gibsonton home on Oct. 20.

Detectives served a search warrant at a home in the 7600 block of Dragon Fly Loop in Gibsonton. The Sheriff's Office says detectives found more than 100 files of child sexual abuse material on electronic devices there.

The case began with a tip on May 28, 2026. A social media platform sent the tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The tip reported a suspected file of the material uploaded through an account. Detectives investigated the tip and identified a suspect.

Deputies charged the man with 100 counts of solicitation or possession of child sexual abuse material. He also faces a charge of in-state transmission of the material by electronic device. Other charges include unlawful use of a two-way communications device and tampering with physical evidence. The charges are accusations.

"It's appalling that individuals believe exploiting children is acceptable," said Sheriff Chad Chronister.

The Sheriff's Office says the investigation remains ongoing. Updates will come from its Public Affairs Office.