DOUGLAS, Ga. (WALB) — A Coffee County man is behind bars after a credible tip alleged he had child sexual abuse material on an electronic device, according to the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO).

Investigators reportedly found child sexual exploitation material on an electronic device linked to 30-year-old Derrick Shawn Porter.

An “aggressive and comprehensive investigation” by the Coffee County Criminal Investigation Division showed enough probable cause to arrest Porter.

Porter is charged with 16 counts of counts of Sexual Exploitation of Children and one count of child molestation. Officials said he was taken into custody without incident.

“I have made it clear over and over that crimes involving the exploitation of children will be met with swift and relentless action. Let this arrest send a loud and unmistakable message that if you exploit children, possess child sexual abuse material, or prey on the innocent, we are coming for you. This behavior is absolutely unacceptable, disgusting and criminal. There will be no excuses, no sympathy and no tolerance for anyone who victimizes a child in Coffee County. Our investigators will use every resource available to identify offenders, build strong cases and ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

In a press release, the agency said, “Cases of this nature remain among the highest priorities for investigators, and every lead is pursued aggressively to protect victims and hold offenders fully accountable.”

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