PJ Detains 22-Year-Old Man for Child Pornography in Torres Novas
📌 Key Highlights & Context
- The suspect built a trusted relationship with the child via social media and obtained intimate content.
- The seized material was later distributed online through a fake profile.
- Coercive measures will still apply and the Azores Criminal Investigation Department continues the probe.
The Polícia Judiciária (PJ) carried out a domiciliary search in Torres Novas and arrested a 22‑year‑old man on suspicion of producing and distributing child‑pornography. Authorities said the suspect possessed photographs and videos depicting a 12‑year‑old child and had shared them on the internet.
According to a PJ statement, the suspect had previously interacted with the child – who lives on the island of São Miguel – through social‑media channels, establishing a "relationship of trust" that led the child to send intimate material. The suspect then stored the content and later used a false online profile to circulate it.
The investigation, led by the Department of Criminal Investigation of the Azores, will keep the suspect under coercive measures while prosecutors assess further charges. Officials highlighted the need for stronger digital monitoring to protect minors from similar exploitation.