SMYRNA, DE - The Department of Justice District of Delaware has announced the arrest of a detective within the Smyrna Police Department for alleged possession and distribution of child pornography.
According to the DOJ, Michael Kealty, 33, reportedly distributed child pornography through his Snapchat this past August. Investigators searched Kealty’s home on September 22 and allegedly discovered more child pornography in his Snapchat account.
In court documents obtained by WBOC, the Special Agent investigating the case says Kealty was both a Corporal Detective at the Smyrna Police Department as well as a United States Air Force Reserves Staff Sergeant.
Kealty allegedly spoke with other Snapchat users about child pornography content, according to the complaint. The Special Agent also accuses him of engaging in conversations with multiple minor girls over the app.
Chief Torrie M. James of the Smyrna Police Department released a statement early Wednesday morning confirming the investigation and said Kealty was immediately terminated from the department after police received full details.
"We will continue to cooperate with federal authorities as they prosecute this case," James said. "As Chief of Police, I am saddened, heartbroken, disappointed, and downright appalled by these allegations. The fact that one of my own officers has tarnished the reputation of our town and department is sickening."
Kealty faces charges of Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography. According to the Department of Justice, distribution carries a minimum of five years in prison and a maximum of twenty. Possession of child pornography carries an additional ten years if convicted.
A detention hearing for Kealty is scheduled for October 19th.
The DOJ says the case is being investigated by the FBI Baltimore Field Office with the cooperation of the Smyrna Police Department.
