JOPPA, MD—A Harford County man was arrested and charged on Thursday after a Maryland State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigation developed evidence supporting charges of possession of child pornography.

The suspect is identified as Joshua Hicks-Kachik, 32, of Joppa. He has been charged with nine counts of possession of child pornography and three counts of distribution of child pornography.

On July 31, authorities began an online investigation involving the distribution and possession of child pornography. Investigators obtained media files of child pornography that were being distributed online. Further investigations led to the identification of the suspect and his residence in Harford County.

At approximately 6:45 a.m. on Thursday, troopers arrested Hicks-Kachik at his residence. A preliminary forensic review of his electronic devices seized at the residence revealed multiple child pornography files.

Hicks-Kachik was arrested on Thursday without incident. He is being held at the Harford County Detention Center pending an initial appearance before a District Court Commissioner.