POLICE / PUBLIC SAFETY

DeFuniak Springs man arrested following investigation

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS, Fla. – A DeFuniak Springs man has been arrested following an investigation by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) has announced.

According to the OCSO, it has charged Jerry Lee Hollingsworth Jr., 44, with using a computer to seduce, solicit or lure a child and using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.

Investigators with the OCSO Internet Crimes Against Children Unit conducted an operation in August 2021, which the agency said led to an investigation where Hollingsworth Jr. was reportedly identified as a suspect.

Hollingsworth Jr. allegedly chatted over social media with an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old, the OCSO said.

According to the OCSO, numerous search warrants and subpoenas were prepared and served to various social media accounts to positively identify Hollingsworth Jr. The agency said that part of the investigation was time-consuming and caused a delay in the arrest.

Niceville.com

Recent Posts

Palmetto man allegedly hid income, evaded taxes for over a decade

PALMETTO, Fla. — A Florida man has been arrested and charged with evading tax payments…

22 hours ago

SunPass scam texts hit drivers in Okaloosa, Walton counties

WALTON COUNTY, Fla. — Law enforcement agencies here and across Florida are warning drivers about…

2 days ago

Eglin AFB announces night flight operations March 10-12

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — Residents near Eglin Air Force Base may hear increased…

2 days ago

Okaloosa STEMM Academy students showcase history at NHD event

VALPARAISO, Fla. — The Okaloosa STEMM Academy recently held a National History Day (NHD) Showcase,…

2 days ago

Niceville voters to decide on two charter amendments in March 11 election

NICEVILLE, Fla. — Residents of the City of Niceville will head to the polls on…

2 days ago

Destin man charged with aggravated battery, accused of using knife

DESTIN, Fla. — A Destin man has been charged with aggravated battery with a deadly…

2 days ago