Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Internet Chat Prompts Pornography Distribution Investigation
An internet chat undertaken by a local teen eventually led local authorities to launch a criminal investigation when the person with whom the teen was chatting sent her nude photos of himself.
An investigation into the matter was initiated Monday when the sixteen-year-old’s mother reported it to deputies with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department.
Reports indicate that the contact began after the teen posted some personal information, including her address, on the “AIRG” website. She soon began chatting with “Young Man” who identified himself as “Kenny Smith.” He informed the teen that he was in his 20s, and they chatted for the next couple of weeks.
On May 8, the mother reported that the man asked her daughter to send him nude photos of herself. When she refused, she said the man asked whether he could send her nude photos of himself. Again, the teen said, she replied, “no.”
Two days later, on May 10, the girl received a letter through the U.S. Mail with nude photos of the man enclosed. In the letter the man professed his love for the teen and expressed his desire to “meet and spend some quality time together.”
The mother was able to track the photos to the place where they were printed – a RiteAid store in Hudson, New York. She spoke with personnel there who informed her that they have the ability to track the order and identify the customer.
The teen was advised by deputies to remove all personal information from websites and her computer, and not to post such information in the future. They warn all parents to broach the subject with their teens, and warn them not to post such information, as well.
Investigation into the matter is continuing currently by detectives with the department’s Criminal Investigation Division.
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