PROVIDENCE — A joint investigation by the Newport Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations unit has led to the arrest of a local man on charges related to child pornography.
Ryan McElwee, 23, was taken into custody on Dec. 5 after authorities executed a search warrant at his Newport residence.
The operation was the culmination of several months of investigative work into McElwee’s alleged procurement of child pornography via the internet.
Lieutenant Joseph C.
Carroll, the Community Policing Unit supervisor and Public Information Officer for the Newport Police Department, confirmed the arrest and the involvement of federal agents in the case.
McElwee faced arraignment at the 2 Division District Court before Judge Houlihan and was subsequently released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond.
Officials have not released further details regarding the investigation or any additional charges that McElwee may face.
Members of the public seeking more information are encouraged to contact Lieutenant Carroll at the Newport Police Department by phone at 401-845-5726 or via email at [email protected].
