14-Year-Old Arrested on Terrorism and Child Pornography Charges
A 14-year-old boy was apprehended after an anonymous tip alerted authorities to potential violent threats and firearms access. Investigators found that he allegedly discussed plans for a mass shooting at a local church and uncovered disturbing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his electronic devices.
The inquiry into Jose Pagan Jr. began on January 27th. Law enforcement connected suspected child exploitation activity to his home in Wimauma, aligning with the anonymous tip about possible violence and access to weapons.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reported that Pagan had strong ideological ties to a violent neo-Nazi and “Satanic” group called the “Temple of Love.” Interestingly, while his last name, “Pagan,” aligns with the term, the agency did not indicate whether it was adopted for ideological reasons.
Sheriff Chad Chronister mentioned the group during a press conference, describing it as promoting “spiritual enlightenment” through violence—an ideology reminiscent of the extremist group known as Tempel of Blood (ToB). It’s unclear if the groups are one and the same or if the sheriff mistakenly identified the group.
This organization is recognized nationally as an extremist group, mixing white supremacist beliefs with elements of Luciferianism, advocating violence as a means for “spiritual enlightenment and personal transcendence.”
A search of Pagan’s home revealed several firearms, ammunition, and devices containing graphic child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Who the firearms are registered to remains uncertain.
“Detectives issued a search warrant linked to this 14-year-old boy,” Sheriff Chronister stated. “A cursory search revealed 14 explicit and disturbing images of violence against infants and young children.”
Chronister emphasized the gravity of these crimes, stating, “The threat of mass violence and child exploitation requires immediate action, and we will not hesitate to protect lives and hold perpetrators accountable.”
The specific Wimauma church that was targeted has not been disclosed, but efforts are underway to ensure safety in the area. In response to the threats, deputies have ramped up patrols at two nearby Christian churches.
“There’s really no such thing as over-parenting. It’s crucial to monitor your child’s online interactions,” the sheriff advised.
Pagan currently faces several charges, including:
- Making written or electronic threats regarding mass shootings or acts of terrorism;
- Transmission of child pornography by electronic means;
- Solicitation or possession of child pornography: ten or more images;
- Unauthorized use of two-way communication devices.
As the investigation continues, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is performing a thorough forensic examination of Pagan’s digital devices. Authorities have suggested that more charges might arise if further explicit material or substantial evidence emerges.
The future direction of the case lies with the State Attorney’s Office, which is currently reviewing the evidence to decide if the 14-year-old will face charges as an adult.
