Newtown Police Department has arrested Paul Melnick, 48, of Newtown, for possession of child sexual abuse material.

During the course of the investigation, the Newtown Detective Bureau executed multiple search warrants on Melnick’s home, vehicle, and digital media which uncovered thousands of images and videos containing child sexual abuse material.

The investigation began on February 26, when a group called Predator Poachers Long Island contacted Newtown PD with evidence Melnick had interacted with someone he believed to be under the age of 16 and expressed an intention to meet and engage in sexual activity with that juvenile. The detective bureau, with the assistance of the patrol division, initiated an investigation. An arrest warrant was signed and served on February 27, charging Melnick with harmful communications with a minor, enticing a minor, and misrepresenting age to entice a minor.

Melnick was held on a $100,000 bond and has been incarcerated since that arrest.

On March 31, a second arrest warrant was signed and served on Melnick, while he was in the custody of the Department of Corrections, charging Melnick with possession of child sexual abuse material. Melnick remains incarcerated on an increased total bond of $400,000.

The Newtown Detective Bureau is continuing its thorough investigation into this case.

Such investigations are lengthy and challenging, the department notes. According to a release issued by the local police department, Newtown PD is grateful to its law enforcement partners who have provided assistance and resources.

Anyone who may have information regarding these crimes is urged to contact Detective Chelsea Harold at 203-426-5841.