Kissimmee Man Arrested for Child Exploitation Charges
Investigation Background
In a significant operation led by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, a Kissimmee resident, Janderson Freitas-Leite, has been arrested on serious charges related to the possession of child sexual abuse materials. This arrest comes as a result of a collaborative multi-agency investigation involving the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
Suspect Identification
Freitas-Leite was identified as the suspect following NCMEC’s report indicating that someone had been utilizing the Dark Web to acquire illegal child sexual abuse materials. The investigation revealed that the suspect used Bitcoin, a cryptocurrency, to facilitate these illicit transactions.
Search and Evidence Collection
On November 14, detectives from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force executed a search warrant at Freitas-Leite’s residence located at The Teale Apartments in Kissimmee. During this operation, not only were various electronic devices including cell phones and laptops seized, but investigators also interviewed Freitas-Leite directly.
Forensic Examination
A subsequent forensic analysis of the confiscated devices yielded sufficient evidence for detectives to establish probable cause for criminal charges against Freitas-Leite. The thorough examination of the technology used by Freitas-Leite was essential in building the case.
Criminal Charges
On November 20, an arrest warrant was issued, leading to charges that include:
- Eight counts of Possession of Photo/Video of Sexual Performance by a Child
- One count of Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device
Following the issuance of the warrant, Freitas-Leite was apprehended and transported to the Orange County Jail, where he remains in custody without bond.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office is appealing to the public for any additional information related to this case or other similar incidents. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities that could facilitate the exploitation of children. Those with information are urged to contact the sheriff’s office at (407) 348-2222.
This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and child protection agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable individuals in our communities.
