ST. JOHN’S COUNTY, FL – On the afternoon of Friday, June 29, 2026, 20-year-old Connor Andrew Gooding of St. John’s County was arrested by detectives with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office after traveling from St. John’s County to Columbia County to meet a child with the intention of having sex.
Gooding had been communicating over social media with a specially trained Columbia County Sheriff’s Office detective (North Florida ICAC Task Force) who was acting in an undercover capacity. Gooding was aware of the minor’s age and still detailed the sexually explicit things he wished to do and sent obscene photographs to what he thought was a child. He discussed the child’s parents’ schedule and asked specific questions to learn the child’s and parents’ daily schedule so he could plan his date and time of travel to meet. During the investigation, Gooding told the detective that he worked at a daycare where he has access to other children.
Gooding was immediately taken into custody upon his arrival and found in possession of condoms. Gooding was interviewed by detectives, where he confessed to the criminal acts he committed.
As the digital investigation continued, Gooding was further found to be in possession of over 25 images of bestiality (humans engaged in sexual intercourse with animals); to have possessed, purchased, and distributed child pornography; to be in possession of a fake identification card; and to have attempted to tamper with evidence in a criminal proceeding.
Gooding has been charged with Florida State Statutes:
• FSS 847.0135.3a – Use computer to lure seduce solicit child
• FSS 934.215 – Use 2-way communication device to facilitate a felony
• FSS 847.0133.1 – Distribute transmit show obscene material to a minor (x3)
• FSS 847.0135.4a – Travel to meet a minor for sex
• FSS 794.011.5a – Attempted sexual battery
• FSS 828.126.2e – Film, possess image video animal sex activity (x25)
• FSS 322.212.1a – Possess fictitious identification
• FSS 918.12.1a – Tamper with evidence in a criminal proceeding
Gooding was transported and booked into the Columbia County Detention Facility, where his bond was set at $430,000.00. As this is still an active investigation, more criminal charges are expected to follow. Gooding was released on bond on June 30th.