Attorney General James Uthmeier has announced charges against Gary Edward McFarland of Apopka, Florida. McFarland faces 10 felony counts for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The Office of Statewide Prosecution is handling the case following a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This led to a search warrant executed by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement at McFarland's residence, where multiple electronic devices were seized.
Attorney General Uthmeier stated, "Law enforcement found this disgusting predator with multiple files depicting the sexual abuse of children—some of which depicted the victimization of infants." He emphasized commitment to protecting children in Florida and expressed gratitude towards law enforcement partners involved in apprehending McFarland. "Our Statewide Prosecutors will hold this predator accountable," he added.
Special Counsel Rita Peters is assigned to prosecute the case.