CLAY COUNTY, Fla – A 50-year-old man who worked as a substitute teacher and youth basketball coach was arrested Tuesday after a Clay County Sheriff’s Office investigation into child exploitation, authorities said.
Tyrone Julius Ferguson, of Orange Park, was detained without incident after deputies with the sheriff’s SWAT and Special Operations divisions and members of the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT task force served a search warrant at an apartment at 1863 Wells Road, the sheriff’s office said.
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Detectives with the Internet Crimes Against Children unit interviewed Ferguson while officers processed the residence for evidence.
Investigators developed probable cause to charge Ferguson with four counts of possessing, controlling or intentionally viewing child sexual abuse material and two counts of possessing animal sexual abuse material. He was booked into the Clay County Jail. The investigation remains ongoing, the sheriff’s office said.
“The Clay County Sheriff’s Office will continue to hold those victimizing our most vulnerable accountable — every time, no exceptions. The safety, dignity and future of our children depend on swift and unwavering justice,” Sheriff Michelle Cook said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Eva Solis at esolis@claysheriff.com or 904-264-6512. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the SaferWatch app or to First Coast Crime Stoppers by dialing **TIPS.