LIVINGSTON, La. — A months-long investigation by the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force has resulted in the identification of 11 child victims and dozens of new felony charges against a Denham Springs man previously arrested for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Cory Thames, who was initially arrested in September 2024 after being found actively browsing CSAM on the dark web, is now facing additional counts after a forensic review of his electronic devices uncovered evidence of production and solicitation.
According to Sheriff Jason Ard, Thames was first taken into custody after LPSO ICAC detectives responded to a request for assistance from Louisiana Probation and Parole. Detectives observed him in the act of accessing CSAM involving children under the age of 13. He was charged at that time with 50 counts of pornography involving juveniles and booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center.
Following the arrest, investigators conducted a forensic evaluation of Thames’ electronic devices. Sheriff Ard said that analysis revealed additional CSAM, as well as evidence that Thames had used social media platforms to communicate with underage girls and produce exploitative content.
Detectives were ultimately able to identify 11 victims between the ages of 8 and 15, located in Louisiana, other states, and even internationally. With the assistance of ICAC partner agencies and Homeland Security contacts in other countries, local authorities were able to contact the families of the victims.
“This investigation is a prime example of why parents need to be more involved in their children’s internet and social media activities,” Ard said. “None of these parents were aware their child was a victim of Cory Thames.”
In addition to the original charges, Thames now faces:
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50 counts of production of child sexual abuse material
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14 counts of indecent behavior with juveniles
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14 counts of computer-aided solicitation of a minor
He remains in custody at the Livingston Parish Detention Center. The LPSO app includes a “Who’s in Jail?” feature with additional information on active bookings.
The sheriff’s office is urging community members to take advantage of the free internet safety presentations offered by the ICAC Task Force. Presentations can be scheduled by calling (225) 435-1365.
