Clearwater Man Charged with 20 Counts of Child Pornography Possession

Detectives identified the suspect as 50-year-old Christopher J. Daddio after receiving a tip about online access to child sexual abuse material.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Detectives with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Cyber Investigations Unit have arrested a 50-year-old Clearwater man named Christopher J. Daddio on 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography. The investigation began after authorities received information that child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was being accessed through the internet, and detectives were able to identify Daddio as the suspect using investigative methods.

Why it matters

The possession and distribution of child pornography is a serious crime that exploits and traumatizes vulnerable minors. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to identify and apprehend individuals engaged in these illicit activities, which have significant psychological and societal impacts.

The details

According to investigators, the images and videos in Daddio's possession depicted children ranging in age from 3 to 14 years old. On February 12, 2026, Daddio was arrested and transported to the Pinellas County Jail, where he was charged with 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography. The investigation remains ongoing.

  • The investigation began after authorities received information about the online access of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
  • On February 12, 2026, Daddio was arrested and charged with 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography.

The players

Pinellas County Sheriff's Office Cyber Investigations Unit

The law enforcement agency responsible for investigating and apprehending individuals engaged in cybercrime, including the possession and distribution of child pornography.

Christopher J. Daddio

A 50-year-old Clearwater resident who was arrested and charged with 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography.

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What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing, and the judge will determine whether Daddio will be granted bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the exploitation of minors through the possession and distribution of child pornography, which has significant psychological and societal impacts. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation in identifying and apprehending individuals engaged in these illicit activities.