A widespread network trafficking in child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has been dismantled following a joint operation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Florida Attorney General’s office, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Seven individuals residing in Florida have been arrested as part of this ongoing investigation.
The scheme involved purchasing illicit content advertised on platforms like TikTok. Authorities believe the organization is led by a man based in Turkey, identified as Mehmet Bozuyuk – also known as “John De Vil” – who is currently wanted and extradition efforts are underway.
During the course of the investigation, an undercover agent acquired a staggering amount of material: 6.7 terabytes, encompassing approximately 1.2 million videos and images depicting child exploitation. Special Agent in Charge Mark Brutnell emphasized the scale of the operation:
“It’s disgusting that child sexual abuse material is advertised in plain view on apps such as TikTok, and we will continue fighting to get these major social media companies to do their part in shutting down the spread of this material.”
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier echoed this sentiment, adding:
“I’m grateful for our FDLE partners who uncovered this deviant network and highlighted their sickening actions. Our Statewide Prosecutors will ensure these disgusting criminals face justice.”
The investigation commenced in July 2024 when an FDLE agent discovered suspicious activity while proactively reviewing a website known to advertise CSAM. Within a week, the site was taken down.
Krunalkumar Modi, of New Jersey, was arrested on July 31st and faces numerous charges including promotion of sexual performance by a child and distribution of obscene material. Investigators determined Modi was part of Bozuyuk’s larger network, which also involves Ximena Maqueda, an Oregon resident.
The seven Florida residents apprehended in connection with the ring are facing charges related to conspiracy to commit racketeering (RICO), possession of CSAM and unlawful use of communication devices. Those arrested include:
- Brett Ryan Moore, 40, Orange City
- Brett Allen Snodderly, 46, Clearwater
- Frankie Pineiro Jr., 27, Groveland
- Michael Andrew Warden, 31, Kissimmee
- Jacob Ross Conly, 24, Fern Park
- Kody Vance Jordan-Muti, 30, Palm Bay
- Israel Cole Thompson, 32, Lakeland
Outstanding arrest warrants have also been issued for:
- Ximena Del Real Maqueda (Portland, Oregon) – Conspiracy to commit money laundering.
- Mehmet Bozuyuk (Adana, Turkey) – Racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, money laundering, promotion of sexual performance by a child, selling CSAM, out-of-state transmission of CSAM, distribution of obscene material and unlawful use of communication devices.
Attorney General Uthmeier underscored the seriousness of these crimes:
“The arrests of these predators are just the beginning. Every image of child abuse leaves a lasting scar on an innocent life, and we will aggressively prosecute these heinous crimes.”
For resources to help protect children online, visit the FDLE website: https://www.secureflorida.org/SF/Family-Safety/BPParents
