Fredericksburg Man Charged With Possession Of Child Porn: Police

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A Fredericksburg man turned himself in after authorities found child pornography at his home, according to a news release from the Stafford County Sheriff's Office. Police identified the man as 23-year-old Michael Byers.

Last year, the Stafford County Sheriff's Office began an investigation with the assistance of the FBI and the Northern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Authorities investigated Byers, as they suspected him of uploading child pornography on different websites.

Authorities said Byers shared pornographic photos of children through a messaging app with undercover police officers. Byers also had sexually explicit conversations about children with the undercover officers.

Byers worked with a local cable company, according to the news release. Investigators determined that Byers obtained photos of children in customers' homes.

On Tuesday, March 16, the investigators executed a search warrant at Byers' home in Fredericksburg. There, authorities said they seized evidence that showed reproduction and distribution of child pornography. The evidence included pornographic images and videos of children, police said.

Officials obtained warrants for Byers' arrest, and he turned himself in without any further incident.

Byers is charged with 10 counts of possession of child pornography. He is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail. Authorities said that the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are pending.

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center can provide information about reporting and coping with sexual abuse. Its website also features training materials and tips to prevent sexual abuse.