TAMPA, FL. (JUNE 15, 2026) - - On June 15, 2026, Tampa Police Detectives arrested 32-year-old Jonathan Darling on the charges of Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor, Use of a Two-Way Communications Device, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor. Hired by the Tampa Police Department in 2019, Darling was immediately relieved of all duty upon his arrest.
"When you wear our badge, you are held to the highest standard of public trust. This individual shattered that standard and dishonored the dedicated officers who serve our community with integrity every day," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "Our priority is the safety and well-being of the victim in this case. This agency will never tolerate behavior that exploits the vulnerable or betrays the public trust."
The investigation began on May 15, 2026, when Tampa Police Detectives assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Squad received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding suspicious online financial transactions between an adult male, identified as Darling, and a possible minor.
On May 26, 2026, detectives confirmed the victim was a 16-year-old male and received allegations of criminal acts. Darling was immediately placed on administrative leave as the investigation proceeded.
Evidence determined that Darling and the victim met through an adult location-based social and dating app. Electronic evidence uncovered during the investigation revealed ongoing monetary transactions and digital communications between Darling and the minor between December 2025 and March 2026. These communications involved explicit photographs of the victim, discussions of sexual activity, travel arrangements, and the purchase of marijuana for the victim.
Forensic evidence gathered during the investigation also revealed messages between Darling and a third party regarding the purchase of marijuana and setting up the delivery to the victim at Darling’s residence.
On June 15, 2026, just after 2:00 pm, Darling was arrested at his home without incident. He was transported to Orient Road Jail.
This remains an active investigation pending the completion of the department disciplinary process.
Tampa Police Arrest Officer Following Internet Crimes Against Children Investigation
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