ZEPHYRHILLS, FL — A 69-year-old Pasco County man was arrested Wednesday afternoon following an undercover operation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) targeting the distribution of illegal digital material. Frank Ruiz Tonin was taken into custody on April 29, 2026, and faces 18 felony counts related to the exploitation of children.
The arrest is part of a broader FDLE statewide initiative designed to identify and apprehend individuals sharing files depicting child sexual abuse.
Undercover Operation and IP Trace
The investigation began in January 2026 when FDLE agents launched an undercover operation to track persons actively distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). During the probe, agents identified an IP address that was traced directly to Tonin’s residence in Zephyrhills.
Authorities report that the IP address was used to share several files, including a video categorized as promoting the sexual performance of a minor.
Search Warrant and Evidence
On Wednesday, FDLE agents executed a residential search warrant at Tonin’s home. During the search, investigators seized multiple electronic devices for forensic analysis. An initial on-site review of the devices reportedly uncovered numerous files of CSAM, leading to Tonin’s immediate arrest.
Charges and Prosecution
Tonin has been charged with:
- 17 Counts: Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials (CSAM)
- 1 Count: Promotion of a Sexual Performance by a Child
All 18 charges are classified as second-degree felonies. Tonin was booked into the Pasco County Jail, where he was held on no bond pending his first court appearance.
The case has been handed over to Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution for trial. FDLE officials noted that the investigation remains active as digital forensic experts continue to review the seized hardware for further evidence.