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In June 2022, an investigation began involving the possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on a laptop computer which was turned over to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.
72-year old Harold Benedict, a registered sexual predator, was identified as the suspect. Members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit interviewed Benedict on September 2,nd. Benedict admitted to owning and possessing a laptop computer which was found to contain child sexual abuse material (CSAM). He also informed Investigators that he had additional computer equipment and personal belonging in a storage unit located in Crestview.
Members of the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit executed a search warrant on the storage unit where they discovered additional pieces of evidence. Benedict was arrested and charged with Possession of Child Pornography and Use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.
