Mexico Man Arrested For Enticement of a Child, Furnishing Pornography to a Minor

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control announces the arrest of Christopher M. Deornellas, 39, of Mexico, Missouri, for enticement of a child and furnishing pornography to a minor.

Deornellas was arrested on September 15, 2016, after a lengthy investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensics Investigative Unit.

During the investigation, Deornellas agreed to meet with Troopers who were posing as a minor, online. Thursday, investigators served a search warrant at Deornellas’ residence located in Mexico, Missouri. As a result of the search, investigators located and seized electronic as well as computer equipment used to commit the crimes. Deornellas was arrested and transported to the Audrain County Jail.

Friday, the Audrain County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Deornellas with enticement of a child, promoting obscenity, and furnishing pornography to a minor. Deornellas is being held with a $75,000 bond.

Captain Eric T. Olson, commanding officer of the Division of Drug and Crime Control, encourages internet users to promptly report to the Patrol or local law enforcement anyone who attempts to engage in unwanted, inappropriate or sexualized communications with children.

The Patrol was assisted by officers of the Audrain County Sheriff’s Office.

The above arrest is mere accusation and is not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.