United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announced that Kevin John Merritt, 63, of Jacksonville, has pleaded guilty to producing videos and photos of himself sexually abusing a child. Merritt, a registered sex offender, faces a minimum of 25 years and up to 50 years in federal prison, as well as a potential lifetime term of supervised release. Merritt’s sentencing is scheduled for February 18, 2025.
Previous Conviction and New Investigation
Merritt, previously convicted in August 2011 for possessing child sexual abuse materials, was arrested on March 16, 2023, following an investigation initiated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The investigation began after NCMEC received a CyberTipline report indicating that files depicting child sexual abuse materials had been sent on September 14, 2022, via a messaging function on a social media app.
The sender, using the username “Jackie Frost,” was linked to Merritt after Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) detectives obtained search warrants and subpoenas for internet, cellphone, and social media accounts.
Evidence and Arrest
On March 16, 2023, JSO detectives executed a search warrant at Merritt’s residence, where he was arrested. Investigators seized several electronic devices, including Merritt’s cellphone. Forensic analysis of the cellphone revealed an email account linked to the “Jackie Frost” social media account and over 100 photos and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor child. The child was later identified during the investigation.
Agencies Involved
The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys D. Rodney Brown and Elisibeth Adams.
Merritt has remained in custody since his arrest. His plea and upcoming sentencing underscore the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat child exploitation and hold offenders accountable.
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