Karate Instructor Charged with Child Pornography Acquisition via Dark Web

Theron Feidt, a karate instructor in Liverpool, NY, faces federal charges for possessing child pornography obtained through dark web purchases. The investigation began on June 9 after a tip to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Feidt allegedly used a Cash App account to buy access to dark web sites containing child sex abuse material. The FBI found hundreds of explicit images and videos on his iPad during a search of his residence and business. Feidt admitted to using Bitcoin for these transactions. The facility, Impact Martial Arts & Fitness, has been closed, and parents were unaware of the charges until arriving for classes. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison and must register as a sex offender.

Key Points: • Theron Feidt is charged with child pornography possession linked to dark web purchases. • The investigation began with a tip to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. • Hundreds of explicit images were found on Feidt's iPad during an FBI search.