CARUTHERSVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Damien S. Bennett, 21, of Caruthersville, Missouri, for possession of child pornography on May 17. The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Forensics Investigative Unit. The Patrol was assisted by the Caruthersville Police Department and the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office.

On Wednesday, May 17, investigators executed a search warrant at Bennett’s residence located in the 1000 Block of Marlar Road in Caruthersville. As a result of the contact, investigators located child pornography and computer equipment used to commit the crimes. Bennett was arrested and transported to the Pemiscot County Justice Center.

On Thursday, May 18, the Pemiscot County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Bennett with 10 counts of possession of child pornography. Bond was set at $1,000,000 cash only. The Division of Drug and Crime Control encourages Internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate or sexualized communications with children. The Digital Forensics Investigative Unit is partially funded by the Missouri Department of Public Safety State Cyber Crime Grant and the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

The above charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.