Authorities: 40 Arrested Across New Jersey On Child Porn Charges

HAMILTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A former teacher and a school custodian are among 40 men facing child pornography possession charges following a sweep that resulted in arrests in every county in New Jersey.

Attorney General Christopher Porrino and State Police Superintendent Rick Fuentes announced details about Operation Statewide on Thursday in Hamilton.

A task force scanned Internet traffic to determine who was sharing and downloading the files across the state.

"The message that Operation Statewide delivers to these offenders is clear: It doesn't matter where you live or whether you think you can hide your crimes by viewing these vile images in the dark seclusion of your home, we're monitoring you on the Internet, and we will track you down and arrest you," Porrino said.

The six-month investigation resulted in 37 of the 40 being charged with distribution of the images, authorities said.

Officials said many computers that were seized had at least 1,000 pornographic photos and videos of children, 1010 WINS' Glenn Schuck reported. State police said one computer seized had more than 76,000 files.

"This type of operation is nothing new, yet people continue to ignore the arrests and seek this depraved material regardless of the impact to the children it victimizes, or to society at large," said Fuentes.

The suspects, who range in ages from 20 to 72 years old, include a former teacher who taught in Delran, Philadelphia and Bristol Township, Pennsylvania.

There is also an accountant, computer professionals and construction workers.

For more information about the operation, click here.

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