A Pasco County firefighter was arrested Thursday after a Hernando County Sheriff’s Office investigation linked him to the possession of child pornography, authorities said.
Detectives launched the investigation on Dec. 28, 2024, after receiving a tip about the possible possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). They identified Tyler John Holton, 30, of Spring Hill, as a suspect through their inquiry.
After gathering evidence, detectives obtained a court-authorized search warrant for Holton’s residence, which they executed on March 6. During the search, investigators made contact with Holton, who denied any knowledge of or connection to the account containing the explicit material. However, authorities said a search of Holton’s phone at the scene revealed the suspect account.
Holton, who is employed as a firefighter in Pasco County, was taken into custody and charged with possession of child pornography and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. He is being held at the Hernando County Detention Center without bond.
Sheriff Al Nienhuis reaffirmed the department’s commitment to aggressively investigating crimes related to child exploitation.
“Any and all tips are, and will be, meticulously investigated,” Nienhuis said in a statement. “No stone will be left unturned. Any person who possesses material of this nature will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the case to contact Hernando County Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-866-990-TIPS (8477) or online at [www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com](http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com).
