Branford Man Accused Of Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material: Guilford Police

GUILFORD, CT — A Branford man was arrested Thursday in connection with an investigation involving child sexual abuse material, according to Guilford police.

Police said the Guilford Police Department’s Detective Division was conducting a “proactive investigation” on Oct. 26, 2024, as part of the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force when detectives found that child sexual abuse material was being shared online from a local residence.

Through further investigation, police said detectives determined the residence was in Branford.

With assistance from the Branford Police Department, Guilford detectives executed a search warrant at the residence.

During the search, police said “numerous items of evidentiary value were seized” and 57-year-old Norbert Stanislaw Zielinski was identified as the suspect.

“Following an extensive investigation and forensic examination of the evidence, investigators confirmed that Zielinski was in possession of a substantial amount of Child Sexual Abuse Material,” police wrote in a news release.

Zielinski was arrested on a warrant on March 12 at his Branford home, according to police. He was charged with first-degree possession of child sexual abuse material. He was held in lieu of a $150,000 bond with a court date of March 24.

“The Guilford Police Department extends its appreciation to the Branford Police Department, the Connecticut State Forensic Laboratory, and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this investigation,” police wrote. “The Guilford Police Department reminds the community that individuals who exploit children often use the internet to commit these crimes. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss internet safety with their children and remain vigilant regarding their online activity.”

Guilford police will host an Internet Safety for Parents presentation at the Guilford Community Center from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 31.