The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 56-year-old Venice man on Wednesday morning for possession of child pornography.
Detectives investigating Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) determined a particular Internet Protocol (IP) address was used to download 76 files previously identified as containing child pornography. Detectives confirmed the IP address was leased to a resident living at 3336 Orange Road, Venice, and obtained a search warrant for the home. Surveillance determined that Mark Childress, DOB 03/08/61, lived there. During a search of his home and forensic scan of Childress’ computers, detectives discovered 40 images determined to be child pornography.
Childress is charged with 40 felony counts of Possession: Sexual Performance by a Child. He remains at the Sarasota County Jail without bond. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending.