Man arrested on child porn charges ‘believed to be a volunteer youth team leader'

TOMS RIVER, N.J. (WTXF) - A man police say "is believed to be a volunteer youth team leader" at a church is under arrest for alleged possession and distribution of child pornography.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato announced Anthony Mauro, 45 of Beachwood, was caught by proactive cyber monitoring by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office High Tech Crime Unit.

They found "someone within Ocean County had downloaded images of prepubescent children engaged in sexual acts. Detectives initiated a month-long investigation, which led to a search warrant being executed" at Mauro's home, Tuesday morning.

When they got there, "The search and subsequent forensic examination of computers located within the residence revealed over 100 movies and images of child pornography."

Mauro is charged with possession of child pornography and distribution of child pornography.

According to the prosecutor's office, "Mauro is believed to be a volunteer youth team leader for the Saint Barnabas Catholic Church in Bayville. At this time, the investigation has not developed any connection between the above criminal charges and his volunteer position. If anyone has any information or concerns regarding this case, please contact the OCPO HTCU Det. Kaitlin Mantle at 732-929-2027 x2740. All information will be treated completely confidential."