For Immediate Release
March 11, 2026
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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Gregory Arendt, 77, of St. Petersburg, on 4 counts of possession of child sexual abuse materials and 15 counts of possession of pornographic imagery of sexual contact with an animal.Â
FDLE’s investigation began in October 2025, when agents identified an IP address downloading a torrent file containing child sexual abuse material. Investigators connected the IP address to Arendt’s residence in St. Petersburg.
On December 19, 2025, agents conducted a search warrant at Arendt’s residence and seized multiple electronic devices. Further digital forensic analysis resulted in the identification of numerous files containing images that depicted child sexual abuse and bestiality.
On March 3, FDLE arrested Arendt and transported him to Pinellas County Jail with the assistance of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is prosecuting the case.
The investigation remains active.
For Further Information Contact:
FDLE Office of Public Information