PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — The Port St. Lucie Police Department (PSLPD) led an investigation that spanned more than 6,000 miles across the globe, leading to the arrest of an international man and the rescue of a young girl who was allegedly being sexually abused.

According to PSLPD, the investigation began in mid-summer of 2025. During the investigation, the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) division found that the suspect, who was identified as Adam Lea, of the Republic of Cyprus, was seeking out other adults with like-minded desires online and exchanging child pornography.

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It was found that Lea was living abroad and attempting to use VPNs to conceal his identity. While communicating with an undercover ICAC PSLPD detective, he shared “disturbing and dangerous thoughts.” It was also learned that his sexual abuse of a child occurred for many years.

PSLPD says the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Athens was briefed on the matter, and they immediately began working to identify Lea and the victim. It led to legal orders being issued to view the suspect’s digital activities.

After reviewing digital evidence, the investigation moved quickly. Authorities in Limassol obtained a residential search warrant, found the child—who is now safe—and took 45-year-old Lea into custody.

If Port St. Lucie residents are aware of someone who is a victim of sexual abuse, they are asked to contact 911 or the Sexual Assault Program of the Treasure Coast at 866-828-7273.