Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Press Release 2-22-18

On February 20, 2018 the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint of a minor receiving pornographic images.  Specifically, a minor was sent pornographic photographs and sexually explicit comments from an adult through electronic means. 
This activity was discovered after the minor’s mother located pornography and comments on the minor’s cellular phone.  She then contacted authorities.  Sheriff’s Office investigators learned the suspect knew the victim through his volunteering at a local school, through other local organizations, and social media.  The suspect had contact with the victim from November 2017 to February 2018. 
 
Charges through the Franklin County Prosecutor’s Office have been issued on Thomas W. Abbott for Furnishing Pornography to a Minor with a bond of $20,000.  This investigation is ongoing.  The Sheriff’s office encourages parents and/or guardians to have dialogue with children regarding internet safety, especially through social media.  If anyone believes their child/minor has had contact with Mr. Abbott in an inappropriate way, please contact the Sheriff’s Office to file a report.  The suspect is a 32 year old male from Labadie, MO.  The suspect volunteered at the Union School District.
 
All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
 
Steve Pelton
Franklin County Sheriff