A months-long investigation into online child exploitation activity in Cayuga County has led to charges against a Weedsport man following a joint effort between local authorities and federal agents.
The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office said the case began in January when the FBI alerted detectives to suspicious online activity involving the exchange of child sexual abuse material. Investigators traced the activity to a residence in the village and identified a suspect after working alongside federal officials.
Authorities executed a search warrant at the home in March, seizing electronic devices that were later found to contain files of child sexual abuse material, according to the sheriff’s office.
Frederick E. Petrie, 68, of Weedsport, turned himself in to investigators on April 23. He was charged with possession of a sexual performance of a child, a class E felony.
Petrie was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to answer the charge in Weedsport Village Court on May 4 at 7 p.m.
The sheriff’s office is asking anyone with additional information related to the case to come forward. Officials said tips can be submitted directly to the department, including anonymously.
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