The suspect is identified as Joseph Joe Garza, 28, of the 8000 block of Inspiration Avenue in Walkersville, Maryland. He was arrested without incident and transported to the Frederick County Detention Center. Garza is charged with the possession and distribution of child pornography, and sexual abuse of a minor.
As a result of the investigation a search and seizure warrant was executed at Garza’s residence yesterday morning around 6:00 a.m. by the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit, troopers assigned to the Criminal Enforcement Division, Western Region, Department of Homeland Security, and state troopers from the Frederick Barrack. Investigators identified Garza as the focus of the investigation. Police believe Garza is a tenant of the residence which runs a registered day care.
Execution of the search warrant resulted in numerous types of digital media recovered by investigators. While on scene, a digital forensics team found several images and videos of child pornography. Garza told police about his sexual contact with minors. Garza was arrested on scene and charged with one count of distribution of child pornography 21 counts of possessing child pornography and sexual abuse of a minor.
Police urge citizens with any information regarding this case to contact Sgt. Hudacko by phone at 410-953-8270 or by email at stephen.hudacko@maryland.gov. Calls may remain confidential.
The Maryland Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is part of the Maryland State Police Computer Crimes Unit and 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.
An incurable illness.
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