Felony child sexual exploitation crimes charges against North Country area resident: NYSP

JEFFERSON COUNTY- Authorities say a North Country area resident is accused of felony crimes related to child sexual exploitation.

On Tuesday, the New York State Police arrested Steven A. Tavani, 19, of Watertown, NY on one felony count each of promoting and possessing a sexual performance by a child.

According to the State Police, this arrest was made from an Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigation involving the transmission of child sexual abuse material over the internet.

As part of the investigation, a search warrant was executed at Tavani’s residence in the city of Watertown.

Multiple electronic devices allegedly belonging to Tavani were seized and submitted for forensic examination.

Following forensic analysis, investigators determined the devices contained images and videos depicting child sexual exploitation material, the State Police reported.

Tavani was transported to the Jefferson County CAP Court for arraignment, where he was remanded to the Jefferson County Correctional Facility in lieu of $5,000 cash, $10,000 bond, or $20,000 partially secured bond.

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