Local authorities: Child porn is nationwide issue
The San Luis Police Department said the child pornography is a billion-dollar industry that occurs across the United States, and it’s taking place in the Desert Southwest.
Authorities are encouraging parents to stay aware and pay close attention to their children’s electronics, so they do not become the next victim.
” Be very engaged with your kids, they are more technology savvy, parents need to become more aware of these electronic devices because this can target anyone, ” said Chief Richard Jessup with the San Luis Police Department.
Chief Jessup said in his experience most of these cases start off innocent but with time, the predator develops an addiction and craves more. That’s when it becomes a behavioral issue.
” They are so far in deep with this. It’s very difficult for them to get out because they have to have that stimulation every single day, ” said Chief Jessup .
Those who are caught with these crimes could face felony offenses. He also added that social media plays a huge role in the industry. In the black market, buyers can spend anywhere from five dollars to $200 a tape.
” Facilitating the crime by just watching on phone or the computer or is the person involved in producing it, which is a completely different crime, ” said Chief Jessup .
