- January 8, 2025
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An Ormond suspect was arrested in child sex case
When a tip came in that someone in Volusia County was writing emails about molesting two children, Sheriff’s Investigator Chastity Burke didn’t wait for subpoenaed records to identify the suspect. She tracked him down, according to Andrew Gant, public information office for the Sheriff’s Office.
The case, involving an Ormond Beach man who used an email account to discuss his child sex crimes with another person, was just one of many Burke has helped solve in her time with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. Over the past two years, Burke has worked more than 500 cases, Gant said.
Burke was one of several Employees of the Quarter recognized Feb. 10 by Sheriff Ben Johnson. The others were: Deputy Christina Chaves, Employee Samantha Collins, Telecommunicator Teddy Griffin, and Volunteer John O’Brien.
“What separates Chastity from her contemporaries is her tenacity and vigor to protect children,” said Sgt. Kurt Schoeps.
Burke had received a tip that someone was exchanging emails about molesting one girl, with plans to molest another. An investigation led to the suspect’s home, and Burke discovered he was living there with three juvenile females.
Burke staked out the home and when the subpoenaed records arrived, they confirmed he was the suspect sending the emails. She obtained a search warrant that led to suspect’s arrest and confession, Gant said. An eight-year-old girl and a three-year-old girl told investigators the suspect had abused them in the past.
“I’m so proud of what you have done,” Sheriff Johnson told Burke.
Chaves helped rescue a driver who had crashed and become trapped in his vehicle in the waters of a drainage canal. Collins’ work with the Sheriff’s Office 100 Deputies/100 Kids program has given hundreds of Volusia children and their families meaningful experience during the holidays, Gant said.
Griffin was recognized for calm work on a call involving a combative, suicidal female armed with razor blades. Daytona Beach police officers were able to take her into custody swiftly and safely.
O’Brien, who works in Deltona in the Citizens Observer Program, routinely responds to emergencies and helps get the right people and equipment in place at the right time, Gant said.
