The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announced the arrest of Patrick M. Lockett, 38, of Jefferson City, Mo., on Tuesday, March 1 for promoting and possession of child pornography.

The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensics Investigative Unit and the Missouri Digital Forensic Center.

On Tuesday, March 1, investigators executed a search warrant at Lockett’s residence on Diamond Ridge, in Jefferson City. As a result of their search, investigators seized child pornography and computer equipment. Lockett was arrested and transported to the Cole County Jail.

On Wednesday, March 2, the Cole County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Lockett with one count of promoting child pornography and two counts of possession of child pornography. Lockett remains in custody at the Cole County Jail with no bond. The Patrol was assisted by the Boone County Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crimes Task Force and the Jefferson City Police Department.

The Division of Drug and Crime Control encourages internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate, or sexualized communications with children. The Digital Forensics Investigative Unit is partially funded by the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

The Missouri Digital Forensic Center is a joint effort of the Missouri Department of Public Safety, Missouri Department of Social Services, and the Missouri National Guard Counterdrug Program, and is coordinated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The above charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Randy Kirby
Randy Kirby
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