ALLEGANY CO. WOMAN CHARGED WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

(Frostburg, MD) – Members of the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit arrested a Frostburg woman today in connection with the possession and distribution of child pornography.

The accused is identified as Toni M. Cozino, 24, of the 100 block of E. Mechanic Street, Frostburg, Md. She was charged today with one count of distributing child pornography and three counts of possessing child pornography. If convicted, Cozino could be sentenced to up to 16 years in prison and/or $28,000 in fines.

Earlier this month, a trooper assigned to the Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began the investigation after identifying a computer on the Internet that was offering pornographic videos of children for others to download. Troopers were able to trace the computer back to Cozino.

Early this morning, investigators served a search warrant at Cozino’s Frostburg residence. The search yielded computers and multiple data storage devices. A preliminary analysis of the seized computers led to the discovery of child pornography. A complete forensic examination of the computers will be conducted which could lead to additional charges.

Cozino was arrested and taken before a court commissioner for a bond hearing. She was ordered to be held on a $25,000 bond and was taken to the Allegany County Detention Center.

The Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is comprised of police agencies from around the state. Its primary mission is to protect children from computer-facilitated sexual exploitation. The Task Force works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to provide resources to combat these crimes. Additionally, the Task Force provides community awareness campaigns helping to prevent the spread of these crimes through education.